Online investment scams: test the promise and the intermediary

A balance display is not a bank statement

Fraudulent platforms can show simulated profits, fabricated testimonials or urgent invitations to increase deposits. Those displays alone do not establish that funds exist.

Verify the legal identity and applicable authorisation of an intermediary using competent official registers.

Watch for staged withdrawal barriers

Requests for extra taxes, insurance or unlocking fees before a payout can be part of a continuing deception.

Do not treat pressure from a purported recovery service as independent evidence of legitimacy.

If you believe you were misled

Stop further transfers, contact the bank and preserve communications, contractual material and payment references.

Vigifraude provides technical prevention information, not investment advice or guaranteed asset tracing.

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