Ten-point guide to avoid ‘boiler rooms’

July 17, 2018
sede-cnmv

Here you can consult the CNMV’s advice to avoid being deceived by a “boiler room”. This term is used informally to define those entities that offer and provide investment services without being authorized to do so. They are dangerous because, in most cases, the apparent provision of such services is merely a cover to misappropriate their victims’ capital, leading them to believe they are making a high-yield investment.

Nature of the entities

Tip 1

Verify that the entity is authorized and that the company has not been the subject of a warning by the CNMV or other supervisors. In case of doubt, please contact us.

Tip 2

Remember that “boiler rooms” are dangerous and intend to deceive you. If you are suspicious, ask questions. Adopt an active attitude. Ask questions about the characteristics of the service and the investment being proposed to you. Obtain information in writing.

Investor recruitment techniques

Tip 3

Be wary of the following warning signs and common techniques:

  • Unsolicited calls or emails.
  • Investment urgency.
  • Personal affinity.
  • Sign-up bonuses.
  • Pyramid schemes where you are also asked to recruit clients.
  • Psychological pressure aimed at making you take an immediate decision.
  • Mention or use of the CNMV logo. Remember that the CNMV would never invite you to make an investment.

Tip 4

Watch out for fraud via the internet and social media. Do not be deceived by the sophistication of some websites. Stay alert to unsolicited offers through your social media profiles. Do not be misled by the affinity of your social “followers”.

Marketed products

Tip 5

Be wary of high returns without risk. Be wary of complex products. Do not invest in what you do not understand.

Tip 6

Pay attention to commissions and expenses.

Tip 7

Ensure that the products offered actually exist and verify the information provided regarding the price of the securities they wish to sell.

Investor profile and education

Tip 8

We are all exposed to fraud. Be suspicious if they do not request information: authorized financial intermediaries offering a product must assess its appropriateness (experience and knowledge) and/or suitability (experience and knowledge, financial situation, and investment objectives) through a profile or questionnaire.

If you cannot recover your money

Tip 9

If you cannot get your money back, do not continue making contributions.

Report it

Tip 10

Inform the CNMV of any suspicious fraudulent incident and report what happened to the Police or the corresponding Court.

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This content has been automatically translated and may contain inaccuracies.