FINRA Warns Investors of 'Regulator' Imposter Scams

Financial Industry Regulatory Authority press release ---------- The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) today issued an Investor Alert warning investors to beware of financial scams in which con artists are posing as regulators to make fraudulent investment pitches. Recently, financial fraudsters used FINRA’s name and logo in correspondence – including a fake signature from FINRA President and Chief Executive Officer Robert W. Cook – to create the false impression that FINRA provided guarantees related to an investment opportunity that was, in fact, an advance-fee scam. The Investor Alert contains an infographic of an actual fraudulent letter that highlights tactics used by scammers to build credibility.“Financial fraudsters go to great lengths to appear legitimate, making it difficult for investors to recognize their ruses,” said Gerri Walsh, FINRA’s Senior Vice President for Investor Education. “That’s why we are telling investors flat out that FINRA does not guarantee investments, and our officers play no role in facilitating investment opportunities. We want people to know that and to understand how they can verify who the real FINRA is.” To learn more click on the picture below to read the release.