How to Recognize an Investment Scam
Con artists peddling investment scams in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton or other South Florida locations work hard to build a personal relationship with their victims.
Watch this FINRA video to learn some of the techniques that con artists use to build trust with potential investors in order to get you to write a check.
There are many investment schemes that a criminal may employ to get you to part with your hard-earned money. Here are a few of the more common scams identified by FINRA, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.
- The “Phantom Riches” Tactic—dangling the prospect of wealth, enticing you with something you want but can’t have. “These gas wells are guaranteed to produce $6,800 a month in income.”
- The “Source Credibility” Tactic—trying to build credibility by claiming to be with a reputable firm or to have a special credential or experience. “Believe me, as a senior vice president of XYZ Firm, I would never sell an investment that doesn’t produce.”
- The “Social Consensus” Tactic—leading you to believe that other savvy investors have already invested. “This is how ___ got his start. I know it’s a lot of money, but I’m investing, so is my mom and half her church—and it’s worth every dime.”
- The “Reciprocity” Tactic—offering to do a small favor for you in return for a big favor. “I’ll give you a break on my commission if you buy now—half off.”
- The “Scarcity” Tactic—creating a false sense of urgency by claiming limited supply. “There are only two units left, so I’d sign today if I were you.”
Fort Lauderdale Securities Litigation and Arbitration Attorney
Contact Fort Lauderdale securities litigation and arbitration attorney Howard N. Kahn, Esq. if you or someone you know has a securities or broker dispute. He is an experienced securities litigation and arbitration attorney, and is available to assist individual investors, brokers, and brokerage firms involved in securities matters. You can reach him at 954-321-0176 or online.
