10 ways to spot a scam investment
Australians lost more than $701 million to investment scams last year, up 135% from 2020.
The main driver of these losses has been cryptocurrency scams, where losses increased by a massive 270% over the past year. Consumer watchdog – the ACCC, expects losses to crypto scams to increase further in 2022.
Despite the potential to be fleeced, research by Roy Morgan shows that over one million Australians own cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple and others.
According to investment regulator ASIC, crypto scams broadly fall into three categories:
- Scams where you think you’re investing in a genuine asset but it’s a fake crypto exchange, website or app,
- Fake crypto tokens that look legitimate but are really involve money laundering using crypto, and
- Scams that use crypto-assets to make a payment.
If it sounds confusing that’s because crypto scams can be very sophisticated. It can be hard to pick the real deal from a fake.
Worse still, people don’t just lose money. ASIC advises that when Australians fall victim to scams it can cause emotional stress and even damage relationships.
It can mean a heavy price for getting it wrong. With this in mind, ASIC’s investigators have put together a ‘top 10’ list of signs that you could be facing a crypto scam:
- You receive an offer out of the blue
- You see a celebrity advertisement that is actually a fake
- A romantic partner you only know on-line asks for money in crypto
- You get pressured into transferring crypto from your current exchange to another website
- You’re asked to pay for a financial service with crypto
- The app you’re using or directed to isn’t listed on the Google Play Store or Apple Store
- You need to pay more to access your money
- You are promised guaranteed returns, or free money
- Strange tokens appear in your digital wallet
- The provider withholds investment earnings for ‘tax purposes’.
If you think you've fallen prey to a crypto scam, ASIC says it's important to act quickly. Don't send any more money, and ask your bank to stop any further transactions.
Admitting you’ve been scammed is never easy. But warning your family and friends can mean they keep an eye out for potential follow-up scams.
Paul Clitheroe is Chairman of InvestSMART, Chair of the Ecstra Foundation and chief commentator for Money Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Article…
According to ASIC, the most common types of cryptocurrency scams include fake crypto exchanges, websites or apps, fake crypto tokens used for money laundering, and scams that use crypto-assets for payments.
Be cautious if you receive an unsolicited offer, see a fake celebrity endorsement, are pressured to transfer crypto, or are asked to pay for services with crypto. Other red flags include apps not listed on official stores, promises of guaranteed returns, and strange tokens in your wallet.
Cryptocurrency scams are increasing due to the growing popularity of digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Scammers exploit the lack of regulation and the complexity of crypto transactions to deceive investors.
If you suspect a scam, stop sending money immediately and contact your bank to halt any further transactions. It's also important to warn family and friends to prevent follow-up scams.
Yes, falling victim to a crypto scam can cause emotional stress and damage relationships. It's crucial to be vigilant and informed to protect both your finances and personal well-being.
Yes, be wary of offers that promise guaranteed returns or free money, as these are common tactics used by scammers to lure unsuspecting investors.
To protect yourself, always verify the legitimacy of crypto exchanges and apps, avoid unsolicited offers, and be skeptical of high-pressure tactics. Research thoroughly before investing in any cryptocurrency.
The ACCC acts as a consumer watchdog, monitoring and reporting on the rise of crypto scams. They expect losses to continue increasing and emphasize the importance of consumer awareness and vigilance.
Call 1300 880 160
Start a chat
Schedule a call
