Blog Details

  • Home
  • /
  • Blog Details
Venmo, Zelle, and CashApp – How Scammers Use Popular Payment Apps
services-details

Popular payment apps such as Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App have revolutionized how people send and receive money. Millions of people enjoy the convenience these apps provide, however, there is a dark side to this convenience.

Whenever something is popular, scammers find vulnerabilities they can exploit, and these payment apps are no different. Of course, this doesn ’t mean you should stop using the apps altogether, but you do need to be careful and have your guard up, otherwise, you ’ll be at risk of losing your hard-earned money.

Let ’s explore how scammers use popular payment apps and how you can protect yourself.

It All Starts With a Bait

Scamming often starts with a simple bait –something that will catch the victim ’s attention and begin the process. There are a couple of different baits scammers use to lure people into trusting them.

Impersonating Friends and Family

Anyone can create an account on these apps and use whatever identity they choose. Unfortunately, there aren ’t any methods the apps themselves use to confirm someone ’s personal information, and that can create a serious problem.

Scammers use this to their advantage to impersonate friends, family, or significant others. Then they come up with a believable story about how they need money urgently, perhaps due to a stolen wallet or unexpected expense.

Phishing For Information

Some scammers try to get into your account directly, but to do that they ’ll need to get your login information. To do this, they send emails, texts, and social media messages impersonating the payment app. 

This is a classic phishing attempt, as with these messages they also send malicious links that can steal your information that will allow them to log into your account.

Some scammers even go for advanced phishing methods and implement AI technology to create convincing audio and video messages, making their scams more believable.

Sending “Too Good To Be True ”Offers

If you receive a “too good to be true ”offer through one of these apps, your red flag alarm should go off. Most of the time, promises of easy money, quick investments, or exclusive deals have scammers behind them.

Creating a Hook

Having bait isn ’t enough –there also needs to be a hook that will cause a sense of urgency and get the victim to send the money without thinking too much about it.

Creating Social Pressure

Wanting to help out a loved one is a very human instinct, and so is a fear of missing out on an opportunity. Scammers use this to their advantage to create social pressure and make their potential victims feel like the situation is dire and that there isn ’t much time to send money before it ’s too late.

Sending Fake Evidence

To make their scam more believable, these people will generate “evidence ”such as screenshots, forged voice messages, or fake invoices and send them to you.

Implementing Pressure Tactics

As soon as you engage with a scammer, they will start pressuring you with guilt trips or even threats until you give into the pressure and send the money they ’re after.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

Scammers use all of these underlined tactics to get an emotional reaction out of their targets, whether it ’s fear, excitement, or a sense of trust. As soon as they get the reaction they ’re looking for, it ’s time for them to get what they ’re after –your money.

However, there are still ways you can protect yourself. There are a few things you should always remember:

  • Double-check all requests and ensure they ’re coming from a trusted person
  • Never share your login credentials, bank details, or other sensitive and private information with anyone.
  • Don ’t fall for pressure tactics, especially if someone is trying to rush you through a decision.
  • Report all suspicious activity and potential scammers to your bank and the payment app you ’re using.
  • Never download attachments or click on suspicious links from untrusted sources.
  • Always use strong passwords and two-factor identification.

Remember that if something seems fishy, that ’s because it probably is. You have to be cautious, protect your information, and enjoy the convenience these payment apps provide without worrying.

Wrapping it Up

Navigating the digital jungle of popular payment apps such as Venmo, Zelle, and CashApp without falling prey to these cunning scammers can be hard at times, especially for those people who are using the apps without staying informed.

But knowing all the facts and keeping up with what ’s happening is one of the best ways to keep yourself safe. Even though scammers are always thinking up new ways to exploit these apps and the people who use them, that doesn ’t mean you need to be one of those victims.

Categories

Recent Post

blog-img

Promised Profits, Hidden Losses: The Dangers of Scam Signal Providers

blog-img

Beware of Fake Job Scams

blog-img

The Psychology of Scams

Latest articles

Our Blog

blog-img
May 10, 2024

Promised Profits, Hidden Losses: The Dangers of Scam Signal Providers

The allure of Forex trading is undeniable. the potential for significant profits in a dynamic, global market. However, navigating the complexities of Forex can be daunting, especially for novice traders. This vulnerability opens the door for scam signal providers.  These unscrupulous individuals and companies promise effortless “signals ” to guide your trades, painting a picture of guaranteed profits and easy money. Yet, the reality behind these promises is often a trail of hidden losses and unfulfilled dreams. The False Promises Scam signal providers are masters of manipulation. They understand the anxieties and aspirations of new Forex traders: the desire for quick profits, the fear of missing out, and the feeling of being overwhelmed by the complexities of the market.  These scammers exploit those vulnerabilities by weaving a web of false promises: Instant expertise. These scammers position themselves as shortcuts to trading knowledge. They downplay the need for in-depth analysis and market understanding, suggesting their signals are all you need to become a successful trader. Guaranteed profits. They will dangle the illusion of a risk-free path to riches and boast about high win rates and consistent returns, implying minimal effort is required on your part. Stress-free wealth. They paint a picture of a passive income machine. Following their signals supposedly allows you to relax and watch your profits accumulate without the burden of analysis or research. Exclusivity. Some scammers create a sense of scarcity by claiming they only have a limited number of spots available. This tactic creates urgency and pressure to join before the “exclusive ” opportunity vanishes. By creating these false narratives, scam signal providers lure unsuspecting traders into a trap.  Remember, the Forex market is inherently volatile and success requires knowledge and strategic planning.  Anyone who ’s promising guaranteed profits with minimal effort is just trying to scam you. Red Flags to Avoid The world of forex signal providers can be a minefield.  If you learn how to recognize the warning signs, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to a scam: “Get rich quick ” promises. If a provider guarantees you ’ll make a lot of money without putting in any effort, run for the hills. Legitimate providers understand the inherent risks involved in forex and focus on realistic expectations. Secretive strategies. Don ’t trust providers who are unwilling or unable to explain their trading methodology. If their signals are shrouded in mystery, it ’s likely because they don ’t have a solid foundation. High-pressure sales tactics. Don ’t be swayed by time-limited offers, aggressive sales pitches, or promises of “exclusive access ”. These tactics are designed to create a sense of urgency and pressure you into making a decision before you can properly evaluate their service. Additional warning signs: Unrealistic win rates. There isn ’t a signal provider in this world who can guarantee consistent profits. If anyone is claiming you ’ll see win rates over 80%, know that they ’re lying to you. These kinds of results are simply not sustainable in the long run. No verifiable track record. Legitimate providers can back up their claims with verifiable performance histories. If a provider can ’t demonstrate consistent success through independent reviews or data, avoid them. Unsolicited contact. Beware of providers who reach out to you through unsolicited emails, calls, or social media messages. Legitimate providers generally don ’t resort to these spammy tactics. At the end of the day, if something about a signal provider seems off, you should listen to your instincts and trust your gut. It ’s always better to exercise caution than become a victim of a scam. Protecting Yourself The Forex market is full of scams on every corner, and the best way to protect yourself from these tricksters who are trying to steal your money is to always be one step ahead. Here ’s how you can do that: Invest in your education. The most powerful weapon against scams is understanding the forex market yourself. Dedicate time to learning about market dynamics, technical analysis, and risk management strategies. This knowledge will make you a more informed trader and less susceptible to false promises. Do your homework. Before considering working with any signal provider, conduct extensive research. Look for independent reviews, and user testimonials on reputable forums, and ask seasoned traders within online communities for their opinions. If you can ’t find a lot of information or are mostly running into negative reviews, the best thing would be to stay away. Test the waters. Reputable signal providers may offer free trials or the ability to backtest their signals on historical data. These allow you to assess the quality of their recommendations without risking real money.

blog-img
February 12, 2024

Beware of Fake Job Scams

Anyone who ’s been job hunting over the past few years knows how competitive the job market is and how the selection process can drag on.  Countless people worldwide have gone through the same song and dance of applying for jobs, sitting down for interviews, waiting for feedback, and often getting rejected. It can be extremely frustrating, especially for those desperate for employment. Scammers have found a way to exploit these people and their hunt for the perfect job, and that ’s by offering “easy jobs ”. Nowadays, the market is flooded with illegitimate job offers, all of which are offering a lot of money for minimal effort. What Are Fake Job Scams? Fake job scams have been around for a long time now. Back in the day, you used to see them advertised on TV, the radio, or the newspaper. However, as job hunting is now typically done online, it ’s even easier for these scammers to cast a wide net and attract as many people as they can. Scammers post job listings and pose as either employers or recruiters, make the offer seem tempting, and then lure people in under false pretenses. In most cases, the scammers will provide their victims with employment forms and ask them to perform certain duties before they even catch on to the fact something might be wrong. And once they do, it ’s too late and the damage has been done. The point of this scam, just like most others, is to get people to invest money or divulge their private information. This can further lead to identity theft, credit card scams, and so much more. Different Types of Fake Job Scams If you ’re on the hunt for a new job now, you will probably run across some offers that seem too good to be true. But before you apply for or accept anything, think about what you ’re getting yourself into. Not all good jobs as scams of course, but some amazing offers usually have scammers behind them. Work From Home Job Scams Working from home in any type of profession is always popular amongst job seekers. Receiving a paycheck from the comfort of your own house is something that many people dream of, and scammers are well aware of this. This is why their most common tactic is offering work-from-home jobs. Usually, the scammers are offering a remote job and asking the person they “hired ” to pay for their own work equipment with the promise of a refund with the first paycheck. But as soon as they send the money the scammers never buy the equipment or send a refund. Fake Job Offer Emails These emails are becoming a common occurrence. The target of the scam receives an email from a person claiming to be a recruiter or HR representative of a reputable company. The scammer claims they found your resume online and believe you would be the perfect person for a position. This scam happens across all kinds of industries. At first, this may seem legitimate because recruiters often reach out to potential candidates like this. However, scammers also ask people to provide information a legitimate recruiter never would. This often includes bank account information, social security numbers, and identification documents. Pyramid Schemes Multi-level marketing scams, also known as pyramid schemes, are organizations that disguise themselves as legitimate businesses and recruit people to sell products, often calling these people investors. The point of this scam is to get investors to recruit more people, and then rinse and repeat. However, the low-level employees never make any money from it, as it was cleverly designed to only make money for the people on top. The investors are required to pay a fee just to have the right to sell whatever products the pyramid scheme is pushing and purchase the products themselves just so they can sell them to other people. And more often than not, these products are unsellable.  The products that are being sold by MLM scam organizations are poor quality and made out of cheap materials, and the “investors ” just end up losing money because of a lack of sales. Historically, pyramid schemes always fail because the promoters aren ’t able to make the sales required to keep the operation going. However, they can last for a few months or even a few years, which leads to a lot of people losing money due to all the fees they have to pay.   Reshipping Job Scams Reshipping scams often advertise themselves as convenient jobs that don ’t require a lot of work and pay a great salary. All you would have to do is receive a package, repack it, and forward it to another location. Seems very simple at first, but there ’s a sinister truth behind this particular scam. If you sign up for one of these jobs, packages will come to your door, often filled with expensive merchandise, usually gadgets such as laptops and smartphones. However, this merchandise is always purchased illegally through credit card scams or just stolen. And when you reship them, you will become a participant in money laundering, which is a serious crime. Additionally, if you sign up for a reshipping job scam, you will be sharing personal information with the scammers. This can put you at risk of identity theft, financial loss, and a severely damaged credit score.  Not to mention that if you ’re involved with money laundering, you can get into serious legal trouble and go to jail, even if you were an unveiling participant. Final Thoughts The job market is tough, and it has been for a while, which caused millions of people worldwide to fall for scams that promised them profit and security. But always remember that there is no such thing as “easy money ” and the perfect job is just around the corner. It ’s better to wait for the right opportunity than to lose money instead of earning it.

blog-img
February 22, 2024

The Psychology of Scams

Whenever we hear about someone falling for a scam and losing a lot of money in the process, the most common thing we tend to think is “I would never fall for that ”. And it ’s a logical first response. When we hear about something like that after the fact, it seems so obvious to us that it was a scam. However, what we fail to take into account is the psychology behind these scams. The truth is that the intricate relationship between scammers and their victims is a battleground of emotions and vulnerabilities. These con masters are trained manipulators and know how to pull at the heartstrings of their targets. And if you ’re not careful, you might fall for it too. Emotional Heartstrings Every scammer in the world sees their victims as playthings and their emotions as their biggest vulnerabilities. And there are so many emotions they can play like an instrument. They try to evoke fear and panic with threats of legal action, financial ruin, or harm to loved ones. They play upon human greed with promises of exclusive opportunities and luxurious lifestyles. They offer hope with stories of miraculous cures, second chances, and the promise of fulfilling their deepest desires. They exploit loneliness by offering friendship and even romantic partnerships. Scammers understand the depth and complexity of human emotions more than almost anyone else in this world, and they use this knowledge to get whatever they want. Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg, because all of these emotions can be nothing more than a jumping point, a basis that allows them to build the groundwork and implement their devious manipulation tactics. Persuasive Tactics Emotions are the most powerful tool in a trickster ’s toolbox. When someone understands how emotions work, they know how to manipulate them and create persuasive tactics that unfortunately work most of the time. One of the most common things scammers rely on is our sense of trust. On a deep level, humans are trustworthy beings, it ’s what helps us build meaningful relationships and coexist in harmony. More often than not, we will assume someone is telling us the truth, especially if we hear the same thing day in and out. And when scammers gain our trust, they ’re unstoppable. Once they have that trust, they already have one foot in the door. Then they will use that trust along with everything they know about you to find the right persuasive tactic. The hook that will cause their victim to throw caution at the wind and do whatever is asked of them. Establishing Authority Imagine you ’re approached by someone who is impersonating a person in a position of authority. It might be a tax auditor, a government official, a senior manager from your company, or maybe a police officer – the opportunities are endless. We tend to trust people in positions of authority more and without too much thought. If someone with apparent authority asks their victim to share personal information or maybe give them access to their financial account, they will likely get what they ’re after. Creating greed Even though we would like to believe we ’re all above greed, sometimes it ’s impossible not to get sucked into promises of great wealth and financial stability. There is a certain appeal in thinking you ’re going to get a large sum of money, especially if you ’re struggling financially. Scammers are always on the hunt for people who are most likely to fall for a scam that promises instant wealth and then trick them into believing they will get the money they desire. They know very well how to get under an individual ’s skin and exploit their desire for a quick and easy profit. Scammers offer high rewards and immense financial gain in exchange for their victims ’ financial and/or personal information. This sense of greed can cloud someone ’s judgment, allow them to ignore some glaring warning signs, and become easy targets for fake investment, lottery, or payment app scams. Taking Advantage of Empathy and Sympathy Empathy and sympathy are both very human emotions. Understanding and sharing someone ’s emotions and feeling bad for them when they ’re going through a hard time is something most of us can relate to. And scammers know well how to take advantage of human empathy and sympathy. Most of the time, they evoke these feelings in the form of fake charity scams and fraudulent crowdfunding campaigns. They pair this with photos of supposed sick or impoverished people, those who are going through a hard time and desperately need money. Unfortunately, people who fall for these types of scams, the ones that pray on people ’s goodness and empathy, are only sending money directly to con men and aren ’t helping anyone in need. Preying on Loneliness Yet another very common human trait is wanting to connect with other people. We all crave love, friendship, and the feeling of being important to someone else. Loneliness is a hard emotion to deal with, and people who are generally lonely are easy prey to scammers. Con artists know how to prey on those who are feeling isolated and don ’t enjoy a lot of social connection, and find ways to exploit them.  They might make fake social media profiles, try to connect, and establish a friendship or a romantic relationship. When the time is right and the trust is established, the scammers start asking the victim to send money and get as much out of them as they can. Final Thoughts Scamming isn ’t as straightforward as tricking unsuspecting victims out of their money. There are various psychological tricks scammers use to get a victim to trust them and this can be a long process.   There have been countless cases of people who have fallen for a scam just because they let their guard down and let their emotions get the best of them. This is why it ’s important to stay vigilant and understand the psychology of scams.

blog-img
February 22, 2024

Online Shopping –Scamming in The Digital Isles

There ’s nothing that influenced the world of commerce quite like online shopping. With the rise of platforms such as Amazon and eBay came the convenience of buying almost anything you want without leaving the comfort of your own home. And while online shopping is typically safe, nothing on the internet is ever 100% safe. Unfortunately, online purchasing scams are extremely common. Since e-commerce has become so widespread, people don ’t often think before they click on the “Buy ” button and enter their credit card information.  But remember that scammers are always lurking and trying to gain your trust, even during an online shopping spree. Online Scamming Tactics It ’s true that there are currently too many online stores to count and it ’s easy to get lost in the sea of merchants. However, knowing how to navigate that never-ending sea and learning to differentiate between legitimate and fraudulent e-commerce websites is a necessity.  And you can do that if you are aware of some of the different tactics these conmen use. Fake Websites One of the most common tactics these types of scammers use is creating fake websites that look legitimate and similar to a website you know and trust, such as Amazon.  They fill these websites with products that will never be delivered and wait for an unsuspecting victim to enter their credit card information. Not only do they create fake websites, but they also make harmful apps that, when you download them, inject malware into your device and then steal personal information from it. Fraudulent Reviews Most people who shop online rely on reviews to asses whether the seller and product they ’re interested in purchasing are legitimate.  Usually, social proof is a great indication of a safe online purchase, but not always. These reviews can easily be fabricated and are just another tactic to lure victims in. When you ’re looking through reviews, see if there is a pattern to them. Are they all unbelievably, even sometimes unrealistically positive? If you see nothing but glowing reviews and overjoyed customers, it could be a potential red flag. Phishing Emails Phishing emails have been a hallmark of scammers for almost as long as email has existed, and phishing is used in so many different forms, including online shopping scams. You might receive an email claiming to be from a popular online retailer or a shipping company in which you ’re asked to provide personal information or click on a link.  These emails sometimes have fake tracking information for a package you supposedly ordered or an “urgent update ” that needs your attention right away. Scammers use specific language and structures in phishing emails to try to get you to act as soon as possible without thinking too much. But remember to always verify these emails are coming from a trusted source and never click on links or download attachments that seem suspicious. Suspicious Payment Methods While some scammers try to steal your credit card information, others take a different approach and just want to steal your money via suspicious payment methods. If you ’re buying something online and are asked to pay for the goods via cryptocurrency, gift cards, or a wire transfer, it ’s best to walk away from the purchase. When you send a payment like this, it becomes extremely hard if not impossible to get your money back when you realize you ’ve fallen victim to a scam. Social Media Advertising Social media has become one of the best places to advertise just about anything, and many legitimate retailers use platforms such as Instagram and Facebook to advertise their products and services. However, scammers do the same thing. When an ad pops up on social media showing a product you like, it can be nearly impossible to tell whether the ad is from a reputable seller or a scammer. These advertisements often look very tempting, but as soon as you click on them, they will take you to a fake website or a landing page that asks for your personal and financial information upfront. Red Flags to Look Out For Even though these scam websites and fraudulent offers seem normal at first, if you keep your eyes peeled, you will be able to differentiate them from those you can trust. Let ’s go through some of the red flags that indicate an online shopping scam: Amazing prices. One of the ways scammers try to lure people in is with amazing prices that are too good to be true. If you run across an item with an extremely low price, it ’s most likely a scam. Always remember that quality costs and doesn ’t come for cheap. Sense of urgency. Online shopping scammers often try to instill a sense of urgency and apply pressure tactics to their victims, usually in the form of limited-time offers and ticking clocks.  Badly designed websites. When you ’re on an e-commerce site, check the website ’s quality. If you spot poor design, grammatical errors, and broken links, stay clear. Reputable businesses take pride in their online presence. No transparency. Since online shopping can be risky, websites you can trust such as Amazon are as transparent as can be. You can easily find information on their return policies as well as terms and conditions. However, you won ’t find this on scammer websites. Final Thoughts The rise of e-commerce has forever changed shopping as we know it, making it more convenient and more accessible than ever. But before you browse through the digital isles and fill up your cart with items, take a minute to consider whether you should be trusting the website you ’re shopping on. 

blog-img
May 31, 2022

How To Avoid and Recover From Stock Trading Scams

Caesars Liddell are experts in getting money back for people who have been scammed. Stock trading scams are one such area they deal with regularly. To find out more about getting your money back after being scammed, get in touch with one of our experts for a free consultation. Photo by Joshua Mayo on Unsplash Stock market experts generally agree that any time is a good time to get into the stock market if you ’re looking for a good place to start investing. But, the stock market is also rife with fraud and different types of stock trading scams. So, you should be aware of the risks and know how to avoid them in order to keep you and your funds safe from stock market scams. How To Avoid Stock Trading Scams: The Signs To Be Aware Of While there are many different types of stock trading scams, there are some warning signs to watch out for that many of them have in common. Unregistered Brokers and Guaranteed Returns One of the biggest red flags of a stock trading scam is that an unregistered broker is offering you guaranteed returns. These fraudulent brokers often operate penny stock scams, and try to get you to buy a bunch of cheap stocks in order to inflate the prices and make themselves and their shady clients money. This is what ’s known as a pump and dump scam. The reality is that there is no such thing as a guaranteed ROI in the stock market — there is always some level of risk. To avoid being scammed, always work with registered, reputable brokers. If you can get a personal reference from a friend or family member who has worked with the broker successfully, that ’s even better. Pressure and No Pressure From the Scammers (Both Can Be a Scam!) Stock scammers, such as fraudulent brokers, often pressure you into sending money right away by saying there is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that they don ’t want you to miss out on. One of the golden rules in stock trading is don ’t let your emotions guide your decisions. Always take your time to investigate and contemplate potential investments before you pull the trigger. On the other hand, some scammers play the long game and take a more patient approach to defrauding you of your hard-earned money. For example, a scam penny stock broker might spend weeks or months earning your trust on small trades, then try to convince you to make one big trade, which is the scam they ’ve been planning all along. You Receive Unsolicited Offers (Most Likely a Pump and Dump Scam) Always be suspicious of any type of unsolicited investment offer, especially if it ’s regarding a company you ’ve never heard of before. Scammers often artificially inflate the prices of fake shell companies by cold-selling their victims, then dump off all their shares at a huge profit. When they do this, your stocks will plummet and you ’ll lose big on the investment. Everyone Seems To Be Buying It One sales tactic that fraudulent brokers and paid stock promoters love to use is the “everyone is buying it ” pitch. They ’ll claim that everyone is investing in a certain stock because it ’s about to blow up and rise a ton in value, and that you should buy it too. Before investing in any stock, you should do your own research and determine whether or not you actually believe in the company and are interested in investing. Never give in to a fear of missing out on something just because other people are (allegedly) buying it. Understand That Listings Are Not Reassurance Against Fraud Just because a stock is listed on a big stock exchange, such as the NYSE or NASDAQ, doesn ’t mean that it can ’t be part of a stock trading scam. Be especially wary of stocks with low market cap values and low trading volumes, as these are the easiest for scammers to manipulate for their own benefit. What To Do To Avoid Being Part of Stock Fraud Ask Questions Scammers use high-pressure sales tactics because they don ’t want you to do your own research before investing. Always ask brokers for more information and independently verify any claims they make to ensure they are telling the truth. Also, ask yourself things like “what does this person stand to gain from me investing in this opportunity?” and “why are they giving me this tip when I ’ve never contacted them?” Use Your Gut Instincts If something feels off in terms of a stock trade, it probably is. So, when in doubt, trust your gut. For instance, if someone reaches out to you about a stock investment opportunity that sounds legit, but you are suspicious of the person or don ’t know why they are reaching out to you specifically, don ’t fall for their pitch.   Research and Read Reviews If an individual broker or stock broker firm contacts you to try and gain your business, always look them up online to ensure they are legit. Look for reviews on Google or on reputable investment information sites to see what past clients have to say about them. Also, Google the company ’s or person ’s name, followed by keywords like “scam ” and “fraud ” to see if they have already been flagged for any type of shady behavior. Know and Trust the Person If you ’re going to work with a stock broker, always make sure you know and trust them personally before trusting them with your money. Make sure they have the required licenses and qualifications to handle your money, ask them to provide you with reliable references, and get to know them to get a gut feeling about them before you start trading. Also, don ’t believe any sponsored ads you see on social media or elsewhere on the internet claiming that you can make high returns on investments. You have no way of knowing who the people behind these are, even if you start messaging with them online. It ’s best to work with brokers who have a physical office in your area, so you can meet in person whenever you want to. Look Out for the Red Flags Above Finally, look out for all the red flags of a stock trading scam that we mentioned above. To recap, these are: Unregistered brokers Guaranteed returns (promises that are too good to be true) High-pressure sales tactics (“once-in-a-lifetime ” opportunities) Low-pressure sales tactics (long-play stock market scams) Unsolicited offers (cold-contact from brokers and stock promoters) The “everyone is buying it ” pitch Stocks that aren ’t on major listings (but even ones that are can be part of a scam) What To Do If You ’ve Been Scammed by Stock Market Fraud If you follow all of the above tips, you should be much safer investing in the stock market. However, many stock market scams are quite sophisticated, and anyone can become a victim. The scam recovery experts at Caesars Liddell have extensive experience dealing with stock market fraud and will do everything in their power to get your money back. The sooner you contact us, the higher the odds are of retrieving some or all of your funds. If you ’ve fallen victim to a stock trading scam, contact the fund recovery specialists at PayBack Ltd as soon as possible.

blog-img
November 10, 2023

Pump and Dump Schemes: Protecting Your Investments in Stock Trading

Stock trading has long been a favored avenue for investors to grow their wealth, offering options for both short- and long-term investing. However, the allure of quick profits in the stock market also exposes investors to various fraudulent stock trading schemes.  One of the most notorious of these schemes is the “pump and dump ” scheme. Whether you ’re considering getting into the stock market or already own a portfolio of stocks, it ’s important to understand how to protect your investments from pump-and-dump scams. What Is a Pump and Dump Scheme? A pump and dump scheme is a fraudulent practice — more specifically, a type of securities fraud — that involves artificially inflating the price of a stock to attract unsuspecting investors.  Once the stock ’s price has been artificially pumped up, the orchestrators of the scheme quickly sell their shares, causing the stock ’s price to plummet.  This leaves those who bought in at the inflated prices with significant losses while the scammers make a hefty profit. They then rinse and repeat for another stock. How Do Pump and Dump Schemes Work? Pump-and-dump scammers usually choose micro- and small-cap stocks because they are easier to manipulate the prices of. They also often choose stocks that are available on over-the-counter securities exchanges, as these are less regulated. Once the scammers have picked a stock to pump and dump, their pump-and-dump scheme works like this: 1. Promotion The first stage of a pump-and-dump scheme involves promoters who disseminate false or misleading information about a particular stock. They may use various channels such as social media, online forums, newsletters, or even cold-calling to tout the stock ’s supposed potential.  These promotions often greatly exaggerate the company ’s prospects for near-term profits, making it seem like a once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity. 2. Price Inflation As the stock gains attention and more investors rush in to buy, the demand for the stock increases, causing its price to rise. This creates a self-fulfilling prophecy, as more people are enticed to jump on the bandwagon, further driving up the price. 3. Sell-Off Once the stock price reaches a certain level or the schemers feel they ’ve attracted enough investors, they start selling their own shares, taking advantage of the inflated prices. This sudden influx of shares into the market puts downward pressure on the stock ’s price. 4. Investor Losses With the schemers out of the market and the artificial support removed, the stock ’s price usually crashes. Investors who bought in at the inflated prices are left with substantial losses, while the orchestrators of the scheme walk away with their ill-gotten gains. How To Protect Your Investments from Pump and Dump Schemes Conduct Due Diligence The first and most crucial step to protect your investments is to conduct thorough research. Always investigate the companies you are considering investing in to make sure any information you may hear about them from third parties is legit.  Look for reliable sources of information, such as financial statements, news articles, and reputable financial analysts ’ reports. Avoid making investment decisions based solely on tips from unknown sources. Beware of Hype Be cautious of stocks that are aggressively promoted with grandiose claims. If a stock is being touted as a “can ’t-miss opportunity ” or a “surefire winner,” it ’s a red flag. Legitimate investments rarely require such aggressive promotion, and there are no guarantees in stock investing. Verify Information Verify the accuracy of any information you come across, especially if it ’s sent or provided to you out of the blue from unknown sources.  Check whether the company ’s financials and business prospects align with the claims being made. Be especially skeptical of claims that lack concrete evidence or rely on vague promises. Avoid Micro- and Small-Cap Stocks Micro- and small-cap stocks are more volatile and more susceptible to pump-and-dump schemes. Unless you ’re an experienced day trader, it ’s better to avoid these types of stocks and focus on investing in large-cap stocks, which are more stable. Watch for Pumping Signals Keep an eye out for unusual trading activity, such as a sudden spike in trading volume or a rapid increase in a stock ’s price with no clear fundamental reason. These can be signs of a pump and dump in progress. Set Realistic Expectations It ’s essential to have realistic expectations about your investments. Understand that the stock market involves risks, and no investment is guaranteed to produce substantial gains in a short period. Avoid the temptation to chase after stocks that promise quick riches. Diversify Your Portfolio Diversification can help spread risk across different assets, reducing your exposure to any single investment. By holding a diversified portfolio, you are less likely to be severely impacted by the downfall of one stock due to a pump-and-dump scheme. Use Stop-Loss Orders Implement stop-loss orders when trading stocks. These orders automatically sell your shares if the stock ’s price falls to a specified level. While they can ’t prevent losses entirely, they can limit the extent of your losses in case a pump-and-dump scheme unfolds. Report Suspected Fraud If you come across a suspected pump-and-dump scheme, report it to the appropriate authorities, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).  Reporting fraudulent activity can help protect other investors and potentially lead to legal actions against the perpetrators. Wrapping Up Pump and dump schemes are a dark side of the stock market that prey on unsuspecting investors seeking quick profits.  Since this type of fraud revolves around real stocks, it can be easy for unsuspecting new investors to fall for a pump-and-dump scam in the hopes of turning a quick profit. However, it ’s important to remember that, as with any type of investment opportunity, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Newer investors should focus more on stable, long-term investments, as well as implement the other best practices we discussed above, to avoid pump-and-dump scams and protect their hard-earned investment money from scammers.

blog-img
November 21, 2023

Identifying Stock Trading Scams: Tips for New Investors

Investing in the stock market is a great way to put your extra capital to work for you. Stock trading offers the potential for significant financial gains over time and can help you save up for retirement or big purchases.  However, stock investing also comes with its fair share of risks, including the possibility of falling victim to stock trading scams. These scams can take various forms and are designed to deceive new and eager investors, often resulting in substantial financial losses.  For new investors eager to explore the world of stocks, it ’s essential to stay vigilant and informed about the common types of stock trading scams and how to avoid them.  In this article, we will provide an overview of some major stock trading scams and offer valuable tips on how to steer clear of them. Pump and Dump Schemes One of the most prevalent stock trading scams is the “pump and dump ” scheme. In this type of securities fraud, shady individuals or groups artificially inflate the price of a particular stock (usually micro- and small-cap stocks) by spreading misleading or false information.  They use this tactic to “pump ” up the stock ’s value, attracting unsuspecting investors who believe they are making a wise investment.  Once the stock price reaches a certain peak, the fraudsters “dump ” their shares, causing the stock ’s value to plummet. This leaves those who invested later with significant losses while the scammers reap the profits of their scheme. How To Avoid Pump and Dump Schemes: Research Thoroughly: Always conduct thorough research on any stock before investing. Look for credible sources of information and be cautious of stocks with sudden, unexplained surges in price. Beware of Hype: Be skeptical of stocks promoted with excessive hype or pressure to buy quickly. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to encourage investment. Check the Company ’s Fundamentals: Examine the financial health and fundamentals of the company, including its earnings, assets, and liabilities. A fundamentally strong company is less likely to be involved in a pump-and-dump scheme. Ponzi Schemes Ponzi schemes are fraudulent investment operations that promise high returns with little or no risk to investors.  In stock trading, scammers usually offer to manage investors ’ money and promise to double or triple it before sending it back to the investors. What really happens is the scammer behind a Ponzi scheme uses funds from new investors to pay returns to earlier investors, creating the illusion of a profitable venture. These schemes are unsustainable, and they eventually collapse when there are not enough new investors to pay the promised returns. How To Avoid Ponzi Schemes: Exercise Caution with High Returns: Be wary of investment opportunities that promise consistently high returns with minimal risk. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Verify Credentials: Ensure that the individual or company offering the investment is registered with the appropriate regulatory authorities. Legitimate investment opportunities are typically regulated. Request Detailed Information: Ask for detailed information about the investment, including how returns are generated and what safeguards are in place to protect your money. Insider Trading Insider trading involves trading stocks based on non-public, material information about a company. It ’s illegal and can lead to severe penalties for those involved.  People involved in insider trading have an unfair advantage over the general investing public, as they can profit from information not yet disclosed to the market. Because of this, financial authorities are heavily focused on controlling and prosecuting it. While it may be tempting to chase some quick profits based on inside information, you can land yourself in a lot of trouble, not to mention neck-high in legal fees and debts, if you take part in insider trading. Insider trading schemes also have the potential to affect the market as a whole, causing a ripple effect that hurts investors who aren ’t even involved in insider trading themselves. How To Avoid Insider Trading Scenarios: Follow the Law: Familiarize yourself with insider trading laws and regulations in your jurisdiction. Abide by them to avoid legal trouble. Avoid Tips from Unknown Sources: Be cautious of stock tips or information received from sources with questionable credibility. Always verify the legitimacy of the information. Diversify Your Portfolio: Diversifying your investments across various stocks and asset classes can help reduce the impact of potential insider trading events on your overall portfolio. Penny Stock Scams Penny stocks are low-priced stocks often traded over-the-counter (OTC) — or not on major exchanges — and are highly susceptible to manipulation.  Scammers may promote certain penny stocks as “hidden gems ” with the potential for enormous gains. They then engage in “pump and dump ” tactics, which we discussed above, to artificially inflate the stock price before selling their shares and leaving unsuspecting investors in the dust. How To Avoid Penny Stock Scams: Research OTC Stocks Carefully: If you are considering investing in penny stocks, perform extensive research on the companies, their financials, and their management teams. Many legitimate small companies are OTC, but it requires diligence to find them. Be Skeptical of Hype: Be cautious of promotional materials that exaggerate the potential of a penny stock. Avoid stocks that are aggressively marketed or heavily touted on social media. Limit Your Exposure: Consider limiting the portion of your portfolio allocated to penny stocks to reduce the risk associated with these speculative investments. Conclusion As a new investor, the stock market can be both exciting and intimidating. While there is always the potential for significant gains, it ’s crucial to be aware of the various stock trading scams that can lead to substantial financial losses.  By understanding the red flags associated with these common stock trading scams and following the tips provided above to avoid them, you can protect yourself and your investments from fraudulent schemes.  Remember that investing is a long-term endeavor, and success is built on careful research, due diligence, and a commitment to making informed decisions.  Always stay vigilant and stay informed, and you ’ll be better equipped to navigate the complex world of stock trading with confidence!

blog-img
November 21, 2023

Avoiding Cryptocurrency Exchange Scams: Tips for Traders

The world of cryptocurrencies has evolved rapidly over the past decade, attracting both seasoned investors and newcomers looking to profit from this innovative digital asset class.  While cryptocurrencies offer numerous opportunities for financial growth, they also come with their fair share of risks, particularly in the form of cryptocurrency exchange scams. These scams can result in significant financial losses and emotional distress for traders. What Are Cryptocurrency Exchange Scams? A cryptocurrency exchange is an online platform that facilitates the buying, selling, and trading of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others.  These exchanges act as digital marketplaces where users can exchange one cryptocurrency for another or convert cryptocurrencies into traditional fiat currencies like dollars or euros and vice versa.  Crypto exchanges play a pivotal role in the crypto ecosystem, providing liquidity and a means for users to access and manage their digital assets, but they are also hunting grounds for scammers. Before diving into the top strategies to avoid cryptocurrency exchange scams, it ’s crucial to make sure you understand what exactly these scams are.  Cryptocurrency exchange scams can take various forms, but they generally fall into the following categories: Exit Scams Some cryptocurrency exchanges appear legitimate at first, attracting traders with competitive fees and enticing features. However, these exchanges may suddenly shut down, taking users ’ funds with them.  The operators behind these exchanges vanish into thin air, leaving traders with few options but to try and recover their funds through a crypto exchange scam recovery service. Phishing Scams Phishing scams involve fraudulent websites or emails that imitate legitimate cryptocurrency exchanges. Unsuspecting users are tricked into providing their login credentials or personal information, which the scammers use to steal funds from their real exchange accounts. Ponzi Schemes Ponzi schemes promise high returns on investments but generate these returns by paying earlier investors with funds from newer participants. They inevitably collapse when there aren ’t enough new investors to sustain payouts, leading to significant losses for latecomers. Malware and Hacking Hackers employ various tactics to steal cryptocurrencies from exchange accounts. This can include infecting users ’ computers with malware, exploiting vulnerabilities in exchange software, or conducting phishing attacks. How To Avoid These Common Cryptocurrency Exchange Scams Now that you have a clear picture of the dangers of crypto exchange scams, here are some crucial tips to help protect yourself from them and avoid falling prey to cryptocurrency exchange scams: Conduct Research and Due Diligence Before signing up with any cryptocurrency exchange, conduct thorough research. Start by checking online reviews, user feedback, and community forums.  Look for red flags such as a lack of transparency, negative user experiences, or unresolved complaints. Only use established crypto exchanges with a track record of security and reliability, and be aware that even these exchanges aren ’t immune to scams. Check for Regulatory Compliance Ensure that the exchange you choose is compliant with regulatory authorities in its jurisdiction. A reputable exchange should have licenses and adhere to Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.  While not perfect, especially in the world of crypto trading, regulatory oversight can provide an additional layer of security and accountability. Secure Your Personal Information Phishing scams often rely on users ’ carelessness in sharing personal information. Never click on suspicious links in emails or messages. Always double-check the URL of the exchange website and verify its authenticity before entering any personal information or login credentials. Use Hardware Wallets For long-term storage of cryptocurrencies, consider using hardware wallets. These physical devices store your private keys offline, making it nearly impossible for hackers to access your funds remotely.  Hardware wallets offer an extra layer of security compared to storing your assets on an exchange. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Always enable 2FA on your cryptocurrency exchange accounts. Two-factor authentication requires you to enter a temporary code generated by a separate device, such as a smartphone app, in addition to your password.  This added layer of security can prevent unauthorized access even if your password is compromised. Stay Informed Stay updated on the latest developments in the cryptocurrency space. Follow news outlets, blogs, and social media channels dedicated to cryptocurrencies. Being aware of potential threats and vulnerabilities can help you make informed decisions and avoid scams. Beware of Unrealistic Promises Be cautious of exchanges or investment opportunities promising guaranteed high returns or “get rich quick ” schemes. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often lure victims with the promise of unrealistically high profits and use high-pressure sales tactics. Diversify Your Investments Avoid putting all your cryptocurrency investments in a single exchange or wallet. Diversify your holdings across multiple exchanges and wallets. This strategy can help mitigate losses in case one platform is compromised or goes offline. Keep Your Software Updated Regularly update your computer ’s operating system, web browsers, and antivirus software. Outdated software may have vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Keeping everything up to date enhances your overall cybersecurity. Use Reputable Wallets and Services When using third-party wallets or services, such as cryptocurrency lending platforms or staking services, choose reputable and well-reviewed options. Conduct due diligence on these services just as you would with exchanges. Educate Yourself Continuously Cryptocurrency technology and scams evolve rapidly. To stay safe, invest time in learning about new threats and security best practices. Numerous online resources, courses, and forums can help you expand your knowledge. Report Suspected Scams If you encounter a suspicious exchange or believe you ’ve been targeted by a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities and online communities. Reporting scams can help prevent others from falling victim to the same fraudulent schemes. Key Takeaways While the cryptocurrency market offers exciting opportunities for traders, it also presents significant risks, including the ever-present threat of cryptocurrency exchange scams.  By knowing what types of cryptocurrency exchange scams to watch out for and how to avoid them, you can mitigate some of the risks associated with trading cryptocurrencies. Always remember that protecting your investments is an ongoing process, and vigilance is especially key in the rapidly evolving (and still widely unregulated) world of cryptocurrencies.

blog-img
January 31, 2024

A Deep Dive Into Rug Pulling –A Treacherous Cryptocurrency Scam

The world of cryptocurrency is very fast-paced and exciting for many people, especially investors who are looking to make a profit. However, one of the biggest issues surrounding this world is that it ’s often unregulated, which allows scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting victims with ease. When it comes to the cryptocurrency market, there are more scams than anyone can count, with new ones emerging daily as it seems. But for now, we ’d like to focus on rug pulling, a very treacherous trend many cryptocurrency investors have fallen victim to. What Is Rug Pulling? Rug pulling is a type of crypto scam in which developers of a new currency draw in investors, take their funds, and “pull the rug from under them ”.  They do this by stealing all of their money and leaving them with nothing more than worthless tokens and a financial abyss. How Does Rug Pulling Work? It all starts with a lot of hype, which the scammers create with enticing features and big promises of very high returns. They often implement aggressive marketing campaigns and present false data to get potential investors intrigued. Of course, the scammers will do everything to stand out in this oversaturated cryptocurrency market, which is why they inject funds into their fake coin ’s liquidity pool. This creates a false sense of security in investors because it seems as if the currency in question has stable value and is in active trading. When enough people purchase the coin and the scammers are satisfied with their earnings, they “pull the rug ”. This is when the developers withdraw all the money they themselves invested in the token, and cause the worth to crash drastically. And before investors know what happened, the scammers are gone without a trace. How To Recognize a Rug Pull Investing in cryptocurrency can be a great opportunity, and scammers shouldn ’t deter you from it. Nonetheless, it ’s important to stay vigilant and understand how to recognize a coin might be a potential rug pull. Here are some warning signs and red flags you should keep an eye out for. Big and unrealistic promises. When someone is offering you high earnings that seem too good to be true, that ’s a red flag for all investment opportunities, including crypto. If you come across a project that is promising astronomical growth and outlandish returns, it ’s probably not legitimate. No transparency. If you ’re investing your hard-earned money into something, you should have all the details. And with rug pulling scams, a lot of details are vague and confusing. This typically includes the names of the people behind the project as well as their background and expertise. A sudden volatility in price. If a cryptocurrency coin is experiencing sudden and rapid price volatility, either an increase or a decrease, it ’s often a bad sign and an indication of a scam. Protect Yourself No matter if you ’re an experienced investor or are thinking about getting into the crypto game, you can never be too cautious and do your part to ensure you and your finances are protected. Of course, nothing is ever 100% sure in the world of investments, however, you have a much higher chance of making a profit on your investments if you know how to stay clear of scams. Here ’s what you need to remember: Always do your research. One of the most common mistakes investors make is rushing into what they think is a good opportunity without doing proper research. When you ’re enticed by a crypto coin, your first move should be to thoroughly research the project as well as the developers. Only use reputable platforms. As cryptocurrency is very popular, there are too many trading platforms to choose from. However, not all of them are trustworthy so make sure you only use reputable platforms that have anti-fraud policies as well as robust security measures. Never put all your eggs in one basket. When you invest and trade in cryptocurrencies, one of the smartest things you can do is diversify your portfolio. Spread your investment across different currencies and even if you end up losing money on one project, you won ’t lose everything. Don ’t trust the hype. Trends come and go, and very rarely is investing money in a trend a smart idea. So don ’t allow yourself to be swept away by hype and a passing trend. Final Thoughts The cryptocurrency space is riddled with various scams, and this is a serious problem for thousands of investors who have already lost money to them. If you want to protect yourself from rug pulling, you need to conduct all trading through due diligence and exercise caution. Keeping yourself safe from these predatory schemes keeps getting harder and harder as scammers come up with new ways to trick honest and hard-working people. So, the best we can all do is stay informed.

blog-img
February 7, 2024

Venmo, Zelle, and CashApp –How Scammers Use Popular Payment Apps

Popular payment apps such as Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App have revolutionized how people send and receive money. Millions of people enjoy the convenience these apps provide, however, there is a dark side to this convenience. Whenever something is popular, scammers find vulnerabilities they can exploit, and these payment apps are no different. Of course, this doesn ’t mean you should stop using the apps altogether, but you do need to be careful and have your guard up, otherwise, you ’ll be at risk of losing your hard-earned money. Let ’s explore how scammers use popular payment apps and how you can protect yourself. It All Starts With a Bait Scamming often starts with a simple bait – something that will catch the victim ’s attention and begin the process. There are a couple of different baits scammers use to lure people into trusting them. Impersonating Friends and Family Anyone can create an account on these apps and use whatever identity they choose. Unfortunately, there aren ’t any methods the apps themselves use to confirm someone ’s personal information, and that can create a serious problem. Scammers use this to their advantage to impersonate friends, family, or significant others. Then they come up with a believable story about how they need money urgently, perhaps due to a stolen wallet or unexpected expense. Phishing For Information Some scammers try to get into your account directly, but to do that they ’ll need to get your login information.  To do this, they send emails, texts, and social media messages impersonating the payment app.  This is a classic phishing attempt, as with these messages they also send malicious links that can steal your information that will allow them to log into your account. Some scammers even go for advanced phishing methods and implement AI technology to create convincing audio and video messages, making their scams more believable. Sending “Too Good To Be True ” Offers If you receive a “too good to be true ” offer through one of these apps, your red flag alarm should go off. Most of the time, promises of easy money, quick investments, or exclusive deals have scammers behind them. Creating a Hook Having bait isn ’t enough – there also needs to be a hook that will cause a sense of urgency and get the victim to send the money without thinking too much about it. Creating Social Pressure Wanting to help out a loved one is a very human instinct, and so is a fear of missing out on an opportunity. Scammers use this to their advantage to create social pressure and make their potential victims feel like the situation is dire and that there isn ’t much time to send money before it ’s too late. Sending Fake Evidence To make their scam more believable, these people will generate “evidence ” such as screenshots, forged voice messages, or fake invoices and send them to you. Implementing Pressure Tactics As soon as you engage with a scammer, they will start pressuring you with guilt trips or even threats until you give into the pressure and send the money they ’re after. How Can You Protect Yourself? Scammers use all of these underlined tactics to get an emotional reaction out of their targets, whether it ’s fear, excitement, or a sense of trust. As soon as they get the reaction they ’re looking for, it ’s time for them to get what they ’re after – your money. However, there are still ways you can protect yourself. There are a few things you should always remember: Double-check all requests and ensure they ’re coming from a trusted person Never share your login credentials, bank details, or other sensitive and private information with anyone. Don ’t fall for pressure tactics, especially if someone is trying to rush you through a decision. Report all suspicious activity and potential scammers to your bank and the payment app you ’re using. Never download attachments or click on suspicious links from untrusted sources. Always use strong passwords and two-factor identification. Remember that if something seems fishy, that ’s because it probably is. You have to be cautious, protect your information, and enjoy the convenience these payment apps provide without worrying. Wrapping it Up Navigating the digital jungle of popular payment apps such as Venmo, Zelle, and CashApp without falling prey to these cunning scammers can be hard at times, especially for those people who are using the apps without staying informed. But knowing all the facts and keeping up with what ’s happening is one of the best ways to keep yourself safe. Even though scammers are always thinking up new ways to exploit these apps and the people who use them, that doesn ’t mean you need to be one of those victims.

blog-img
December 4, 2021

Can You Trust Binary Options Signals?

How do binary options signals work? Binary options signals are a type of alert that investors can choose to receive from a binary options trading platform in order to make decisions about which binary options to buy and sell. The most common way you can sign up to receive binary options signals alerts is through a binary options signals broker service. What are binary options signals brokers? Binary options signals brokers are binary options trading platforms allegedly run by investment professionals, who you can buy binary options signals plans from. Once you sign up for their services and pay, the brokers send you alerts about trades to make that will supposedly make you good returns on your investments. Unfortunately, there are many scam brokers out there, who do not provide reliable trading advice and end up scamming you out of your funds. Some scam brokers even employ binary options trading signal bots, which are even less reliable because they use very rudimental technology to give you advice about what trades to make. Binary options signal scams What are the types of signal scams? One common way that scam brokers defraud people of their money is by refusing to give you your funds. A broker may seem completely legitimate, but when you go to withdraw your original deposit or your returns from your account, you can ’t. The platform ’s customer service may offer unsatisfactory explanations for why you can ’t take your money out, or they might just ignore you altogether. Another even more sneaky way that binary options signal scammers can steal from you is through identity theft. Once you sign up for a fake binary options signal service, the scammers can use your sensitive data to steal directly from you (via credit cards), or they can sell the data off to other even more shady parties. The third most common type of binary options signal scam is data manipulation. A scam trading platform might manipulate the data to make it look like you made a losing trade in order to keep your deposited funds, with you none the wiser. Or, they might only slightly manipulate the numbers to make your returns look lower than they are, keeping a percentage of the profits themselves. How to know if you ’ve been scammed by binary options signals If you are unable to withdraw funds from a binary options trading platform after signing up for a binary options trading signals plan, you have likely been scammed. Or, if you were promised certain returns on your investments and are not receiving anywhere near those returns (i.e., you keep making losing trades), the broker you signed up for is likely scamming you. How to avoid signal scams One of the biggest red flags to watch out for to avoid binary options signal scams is any promise that sounds too good to be true. Many scammers overstate (or completely lie) about the return on investment you can expect by signing up for their signals platforms. Another great way to avoid getting scammed is to do thorough research on any binary signal brokers that you ’re considering signing up with. Unregistered brokers are the biggest perpetrators of scams, so always make sure that any broker platform you want to use is registered and doesn ’t have a history of fraud. If you can ’t verify that a broker is registered, or you come across any reports of negative experiences from other investors, don ’t give any money to that broker. There are plenty of legitimate options signals platforms out there that you can use — just do your due diligence to choose a reputable platform. Lastly, it ’s always good to sign up for services that offer trial periods. That way, you can test them out without committing too much in order to prove that they work and that they aren ’t a scam. What to do if you ’re scammed by binary options signals? If you suspect you ’ve been scammed out of your hard-earned money by a binary options signals scam, don ’t despair. You can still hire a funds recovery specialist, such as Caesars Liddell, to take on your case and try to get your money back from the binary options broker. The first thing to do if you get scammed by a binary options signals broker is to immediately stop using the service. Whatever you do, do not send them any more money. The second thing to do is to call Caesars Liddell. At Caesars Liddell, our team of compassionate fund recovery experts has experience retrieving scam funds from a variety of different types of online and financial scams, including binary options trading scams. Contact our team today to start reviewing your case as soon as possible. We will do everything in our power to press the scammers and get your stolen funds back where they belong.

blog-img
March 14, 2022

What Are Binary Options and How Do They Work?

Anti-Fraudare experts at getting money back from people who have been scammed. Binary Options scams  is one such area they deal with regularly. To find out more about getting your money back after being scammed  get in touch with one of our experts  for a free consultation. What Are Binary Options and How Do They Work? When you ’re looking at different investing options to choose from, you ’re bound to come across something called binary options. This article will go over the basics of what binary options trading is and the risks associated with it. What Is a Binary Option? A binary option is a financial option that can either pay out a fixed price amount or nothing at all. When you buy binary options, you ’re essentially betting that the price of the option will reach a certain point at a certain time, at which you sell it. You can either be right or wrong, which is why binary options are known as all-or-nothing options. Binary Options vs. Options: What ’s the Difference? Unlike other types of options, binary options don ’t allow you to purchase or hold the underlying asset. As soon as your binary options contract expires, you receive a fixed amount or nothing. Thus, binary options are even more risky than other types of options. What Are Binary Options Signals? Binary options signals are notifications that you purchase from a company or an investment advisor that tell you when and what binary options to trade. These signals can even come from trading bots and algorithms, and are very risky to purchase because there are lots of scam signals out there. What Are Binary Options on Stocks? Some types of binary options are based on individual stocks or stock indexes, meaning that traders speculate on the underlying stocks to guide their binary options trading decisions. How Do Binary Options Work? 1. The Underlying Market Binary option values are based on underlying markets. In other words, as global markets fluctuate, their prices influence how much binary options are worth. When you buy a binary option and speculate on the price it will reach, you ’re doing so based on how you think a certain market will affect the option ’s price. 2. The Strike Price The binary options strike price is the price which you think the options will reach, at which you will sell them to make a fixed profit. If you are wrong about the strike price and the price of the options stays below it, you don ’t make anything. 3. The Expiration Date and Time The expiration date and time is when your binary options are settled into a cash value. If they surpassed the predicted strike price, you get paid your fixed amount. The 4 Markets You Deal With in Binary Options Forex Forex is short for foreign exchange market and it is the market where currencies are bought and sold. Stock Indices Stock market indices, or stock indexes, are subsets of the stock market that are bought and sold as a group. Commodities Commodities are raw materials that you can invest in, such as precious metals, oil, natural gas, and agricultural goods.   Binary Events Another type of binary options trading is binary events trading. For these types of trades, speculation is based on upcoming events, such as announcements, which can drastically affect the prices of binary options one way or another. What Is Binary Trading? Binary trading is the act of buying and selling binary options. You can do this via a variety of binary options trading platforms. What ’s the Minimum Deposit for a Binary Trade? The minimum deposit for binary trades varies depending on the platform you trade on. However, it can be as low as $5 USD. How To Trade Binary Options Study different market trends Sign up for a binary options trading platform Decide which market you want to trade binary options for Choose a strike price and expiration date/time Make the trade Wait for the binary options trade to expire and settle into cash Binary Options Trading Example Here ’s an example of how a binary options trade might look: let ’s say that a commodity, oil, is trading at $80 and you want to purchase a binary option for the market. You buy a binary option with a strike price of $85 and an expiration date and time of tomorrow at 1 p.m. If the binary option goes above $85 by tomorrow at 1 p.m., you earn a fixed percentage or sum, depending on the terms set forth by the binary options trading platform you used to make the trade. If it stays below $85, you don ’t make any money. How Are Binary Options Regulated in the US? Binary options are fully legal and regulated in the US, provided that you trade them on an approved US exchange. If you trade on an unregulated exchange, you are more likely to get scammed because they are not subject to the rules of regulated exchanges. Is This the Same Outside of the US? Different countries have different governing bodies that regulate binary options trading. However, the level of regulation varies greatly, and some countries do not regulate binary options trading at all. Can You Get Scammed on a Binary Options Trade? Though binary options in and of themselves are a legitimate trading option, there are many binary options scams out there, including fraudulent binary options brokers. That ’s why you should always trade binary options via a registered and regulated exchange in your country of residence. Unregistered platforms often operate outside the law, and can scam you in a variety of ways. For example, they may refuse to give you payouts or even manipulate data to make it look like you lost on a trade. In other cases, binary options scammers have been known to steal credit card information and other financial information and commit identity theft. They can then use your sensitive data to steal large sums of money directly from your accounts. There are also many binary options signal scams, in which the scammers provide bad investment advice in exchange for a flat fee. Be especially wary of trading bots offering signals. If you think you ’ve been scammed on binary options trading, contact Payback today. Our team of fund recovery specialists will do everything they can to get your funds back.

chat