InvestRight

Recognize it

Some companies or investment clubs invite potential investors to a seminar as a way to recruit new investors. The seminar or club may boast of investment experts or even a self-made millionaire who gives advice on investing. If someone approaches you to attend a seminar about an investment opportunity, look carefully at what the opportunity is offering.

Check it out

Protect yourself from investment seminar scams by using this checklist: 

	Be wary of free seminars or promises of a free meal or gift Once you are there, you may be asked to pay fees or commissions.
	Don’t be fooled by 'limited time offers' If someone is pressuring you, decline the offer or seek advice from an independent financial adviser.
	Watch for claims of secret techniques for building wealth The salespeople at seminars can make misleading claims that may entice you to sign up.
	Think critically about promises to 'be a millionaire in three years' and 'get rich quick' Use common sense and do your own research.
	Listen for excessive use of financial jargon Promoters use this language to make you feel intimidated so that you are less inclined to ask questions. If you do not understand something about the investment, ask.
	Be aware of talk of tax avoidance or moving money offshore You can defer paying taxes, but you cannot avoid paying them.
	Do your own research before attending an investment seminar Looking into the opportunity will arm you with information you can use to ask questions at the seminar.
	Research the company and promoters Search your provincial securities regulator’s website or call to check on the company or individual selling the investment

Visit our Common investment schemes section to learn more about the types of scams fraudsters promote in seminars. Also, check out the Protect your money section.

Report it

Even if you are not considering an investment or haven’t given your money to a person selling the investment, take the time to bring suspicious activity to the attention of securities regulators. Your care and attention may save a friend, family member or member of your community from falling victim to a scam artist.

In BC, contact BCSC Inquiries. You can also anonymously report suspicious activity through InvestRight’s Report a scam webpage.

Residents from other Canadian provinces can find contact information for their provincial securities regulator at
www.securities-administrators.ca.