Protect Yourself Against Investment Fraud
Scammers are getting bolder and bolder with their extortion methods and there is no shortage of ways they will try to separate you from your money. Make sure that you are aware of the telltale signs of a scam and avoid allowing your fear to get the best of you in these situations.
Resources
5 Red Flags of Investment Fraud : Older Americans are often targets of investment fraud. The SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy is issuing this Updated Investor Alert to help seniors identify signs that what is offered as an investment may actually be a fraud.
Social Media and Investing : The SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy is issuing this Investor Bulletin to provide seniors who use social media with a few tips to help them do so more safely and to help them avoid investment fraud.
A Guide for Seniors: Seniors are often the biggest target of fraud. However, with some basic understanding of how scam artists work, you can avoid fraud and protect your hard-earned money. Learning how to invest safely can make a huge difference in your retirement years.
Action Item
By adding a Trusted Contact to your accounts, you can authorize Schwab and your Investment Advisor to contact the Trusted Contact Person(s) at their discretion to:
- disclose information about your account to address possible activities that might indicate financial exploitation of you
- confirm the specifics of your current contact information, health status (including physical or mental capacity)
- confirm the identity of any legal guardian, executor, trustee, or holder of a power of attorney on your account(s); or as otherwise permitted by FINRA rules or state law
Adding a Trusted Contact to your profile is voluntary, but is a great way to add a layer of protection in the event you become a victim of financial exploitation. If you would like more information on the Trusted Contact, or if you would like to add one to your profile, contact us and choose "Trusted Contact" in the dropdown.
