BEING AN ALERT INVESTOR

Securities Fraud Prevention Tips

Here are three tips to help you identify whether you may be the target of a securities fraud and the possible steps that you could take if you have been scammed.

Tip #1: Identify the warning signs

• Does the investment sound too good to be true?
• Do you feel pressured by the seller to participate in the investment?
• Did the seller request that you provide your personal information such as your account number, credit card details and other identification information over the telephone or internet?
• Was the offer unsolicited by you?

Tip #2: Take immediate action

• Determine whether the investment opportunity is bona fide. Do your own research on the company and/or the seller.
• Don’t assume. Check the ECSRC website and other verifiable sources to confirm that the seller is who he or she says they are.
• Ask the seller to send you financial information such as the offer circular, prospectus, annual reports and other pertinent information to assist you in verifying the offer.
• Consult with your trusted financial advisor, licensed broker-dealer before entering into any investment

Tip#3: Report the fraud

• Don’t be embarrassed.
• File a complaint with the Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission or the Police.
• Report the scam promptly.