What is investment fraud?
Investment fraud involves scams where criminals try to convince you to invest money in non-existent or fake financial products (crypto, forex, etc.). They often promise high returns with little risk, but it is actually a trap to steal your money. After receiving your money, these fraudsters often disappear without a trace.
Investment fraud: how to recognise and prevent it
What should you do if you are a victim of investment fraud?
- Stop all contact with the scammers: Block their calls.
- Stop paying: Don't transfer any additional funds, even if you are promised that you will then get your investment back.
- Inform your bank: Contact your bank immediately to try to block the transfer or prevent further losses.
- Block your means of payment: If you have shared bank information, contact Card Stop (078 170 170) to block your cards.
- File a complaint with the police: File a report at your local police station or at www.politie.be.
- Report the fraud (Dutch/French only): via ConsumerConnect > Consumentenbedrog > Verdachte beleggingen
- Beware of 'recovery rooms': Some scammers approach victims a second time with the promise of recovering lost money, but charge more money to do so.
More information and help
For more tips and information on how to protect yourself from investment fraud, visit the Wikifin website (French/Dutch only), where you can find independent, reliable and practical information on money matters.
Stay vigilant and don't be fooled by promises that are too good to be true. If in doubt, always contact the FSMA or your bank before investing.
Safeonweb: Investment fraud: how to recognise and prevent it
