What You Need To Know About Financial Planners

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

“Unlike brokers or investment advisers, the financial planning profession does not have its own regulator. Instead, individuals who call themselves financial planners may be regulated in relation to other services they provide.”  Read the FINRA Article...

How Investors Can Avoid Getting Fooled

Posted on Apr 1, 2016

“April 1st is a day to indulge in silly hoaxes and pranks. But there’s nothing funny about a fraudster carrying out a scam – and no one will yell ‘April Fools’ to make the harm melt away,” said Gerri Walsh, Senior VP of Investor Education at FINRA. “So instead of offering practical jokes, we’re marking the start of Financial Literacy Month with practical tips for becoming a smarter...

Beware Of High-Yield CD Offers

Posted on Mar 4, 2016

A recent FINRA Alert “High-Yield CD Offers Can Be Bait for High-Commission Investments” reports… “Maybe you’ve seen ads promoting “High CD Yields!” that offer rates significantly higher than other bank products.  If you inquire about the certificate of deposit (CD), you may find yourself listening to a sales pitch and ultimately owning a very costly, potentially risky investment.”...

INVESTOR ALERT

Posted on Feb 24, 2016

A recent FINRA alert discusses how, “High-Yield CD Offers Can Be Bait for High-Commission Investments.”  This alert comes following a high number of calls to the Securities Help Line For Seniors.  Click here to read more.

Why Smart People Fall For Investment Scams

Posted on Nov 23, 2014

An October 20, 2014 online Forbes article discusses the various reasons people fall victim to investment fraud. Knowledge, trust and opportunity (or lack thereof) are all common factors of fraud victims. “There are many reasons why we fall for investment scams. As we understand and realize these factors, we are less likely to fall prey to investment scamsters — who we call “financial serial killers.” According to the article, the best ways to protect yourself include; look objectively at qualifications, don’t make decisions based on emotion, and don’t be lured by “scarcity of the opportunity.”  The article also includes seven questions you to ask.  To read the entire article, including the “7 Questions You Need to Ask”, click...

Beware of Investment Fraud

Posted on Nov 17, 2014

An October 8, 2014 article on USA.gov outlines the signs to watch for to avoid being the victim of investment fraud.  The article also discusses affinity fraud;  investment scams that target specific groups, such as the elderly, religious or ethnic communities.  To learn what warning signs to watch for, click...