SCAM AWARENESS EDUCATION SERIES

Scammers are utilizing AI-generated deepfakes and “AI-washing” to make fraudulent websites look more professional than ever. Here are warning signs for fake investment sites.

1. The “Too Good to Be True” Promise

The most enduring red flag is the promise of guaranteed high returns with little to no risk.

• The Reality: In legitimate investing, risk and return are inextricably linked.

• The Red Flag: Any site offering “guaranteed” daily or weekly returns (e.g., 1% daily or 20% monthly) is likely a Ponzi scheme using new investors’ money to pay old ones until the system collapses.

2. Technical Inconsistencies & AI-Driven Deception

Scammers often create “throwaway” sites that look polished but lack history or authenticity.

• Check the Domain Age: Use a domain lookup tool (like Whois) to see when the website was registered. If a company claims to have decades of experience but their domain was registered three months ago, walk away.

• AI-Generated Content: In 2026, be wary of websites using high-quality but generic AI-generated videos of “CEOs” or “advisors.” Look for unnatural eye movements or slightly robotic speech patterns.

• Visual Glitches: Check for broken links, poor grammar, or low-resolution logos. Scammers often fail at deep-site functionality like “About Us” pages or Terms of Service links that actually lead nowhere.

3. High-Pressure “FOMO” Tactics

Fraudulent platforms rely on psychological manipulation to stop you from doing your due diligence.

• Artificial Scarcity: Watch for countdown timers or claims that “only 5 spots remain” for a specific high-yield fund.

• Urgency: If a “representative” on WhatsApp or Telegram pressures you to invest immediately to catch a specific market swing, they are trying to bypass your critical thinking.

4. Unconventional Payment Methods

Legitimate investment firms use established banking systems and regulated custodians.

• The Red Flag: Be extremely wary if a site requires you to deposit funds via cryptocurrency only, wire transfers to personal accounts, or payment through third-party apps or gift cards.

• Withdrawal Obstacles: A common tactic is the “Release Fee.” If a site asks you to pay a tax or a “withdrawal fee” to access your own profits, you are being scammed. A real brokerage simply deducts fees from your balance.

5. Lack of Regulatory Registration

Every legitimate investment professional or firm must be registered with a national or state regulator (such as the SEC, FINRA, or the FCA) for the countries in which it is operating. e.g. having a license in Canada, doesn’t permit them to offer financial services in Australia.

Red Flag Checklist for Quick Reference

Remember, awareness is your strongest defense.   

Contact us if you’d like more information on how cyber intelligence can help you locate scammers.

Please share this guide with friends and colleagues.