Fraud disguised as investment training: how criminals steal savings

Promises of easy earnings in cryptocurrency and investment instrument markets are often a disguised form of criminal activity. The essence of the scam is to convince a person to invest more and more money by showing them fictitious profits. When the victim attempts to withdraw their savings, the scammers block the account and demand payment of another "fee".

The mechanism of manipulation: from free consultation to total loss

The process of seizing funds usually unfolds according to a clear script. Initially, the potential victim is offered to leave an application for training or receive a free consultation. After this, a manager contacts them, establishes emotional contact, finds out about the client's financial situation, and recommends using a specific investment platform.

At the next stage, a person claiming to be a trader joins the dialogue. They convince the victim to transfer funds for "trading" on the market. A specially created website displays data on allegedly successful transactions and capital growth. To reinforce trust, criminals sometimes allow a small amount to be withdrawn, creating the illusion that the system is really working.

Deceived people begin to invest more and more money, and in some cases even take out loans or borrow money. However, when attempting to withdraw their savings, victims are informed that their account has been blocked. To unblock it, they are required to pay additional fees, taxes, or insurance contributions. As a result, people lose their own funds. In addition, scammers may encourage the installation of remote access programs on the device, giving them the opportunity to access personal and banking data.

Key safety rules for investors

To avoid losses, it is worth following a few simple but critically important rules:

• Do not believe promises of guaranteed profit. Any investment activity is associated with risks.
• Check the reputation of the company and platform before transferring any funds.
• Avoid taking loans for dubious investments. Do not allow third parties to psychologically pressure you.
• Never install remote access programs at the request of strangers and do not share your banking data with them.
• Do not pay additional fees to unblock an account. Such demands may be a continuation of the fraud scheme.

If you have already transferred money, save all evidence: correspondence, contacts of interlocutors, payment receipts, and links to the platform. Immediately contact your bank, and report the fact of fraud to the Cyber Police via the official online form.

Additional information on common criminal schemes and ways to protect yourself can be found on the state platform StopFraud.

It is important to understand: figures on the screen and promises of large profits do not guarantee that your money is really working. Before investing, carefully verify the information and do not risk your savings for dubious offers.

Recall that Ukraine has introduced criminal liability not only for creating fraudulent call centres but also for knowingly facilitating their work and recruiting new employees. The Cyber Police emphasise: even providing premises or equipment can have criminal consequences if a person knew about the illegal activities of the "office".