Začínáme s investováním
How to spot an investment scam and not get caught
Key takeaways
- No legitimate investment guarantees a fixed return — anyone who promises that is lying or running a fraud.
- Pressure to decide quickly is a classic manipulation tactic — a trustworthy offer never rushes you.
- Always verify that the entity holds a license from the Czech National Bank or another EU regulator.
- An investment advisor from WhatsApp or Telegram is almost always a scam.
Investment scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated — but the warning signs remain the same.
The most common warning signs
These things should stop you immediately:
- Guaranteed returns. "We guarantee 15% per year with no risk." No regulated investment can promise that. Returns are always uncertain — that is the law of nature in financial markets.
- Pressure to decide quickly. "Offer valid today only." "Last spots remaining." Fraudsters deliberately leave little time so you can't verify the facts.
- Contact via social media or messages. Did an "investment tip" reach you via Instagram, WhatsApp or Telegram? Especially from someone you don't know personally? Red flag.
- Unregulated entity. The company has no license from the Czech National Bank or another EU regulator. How to find out? Visit the CNB or ESMA public register and search for the company's name.
- Complex or opaque product. Fraudsters love complicated jargon to obscure what is really happening with the money. If you don't understand it, don't invest.
- Excessively high returns. World equity markets have historically averaged 7–10% per year. An offer promising 20, 30 or 50% regularly is a warning sign.
How to verify legitimacy
You can find a regulated broker or investment company in the CNB register at cnb.cz or in the ESMA database. If the entity is not in the register, avoid it regardless of how convincing it sounds.
What to do if you encounter a suspicious offer
Do not respond, do not send money or personal information. You can report the suspicious entity to the CNB. If you have already sent money, contact your bank and the police immediately.
FAQ
How quickly can I verify whether a broker is regulated?
It only takes a few minutes. Go to cnb.cz under "Lists of regulated entities" or to the ESMA website and search for the company name. If it isn't there, or the name is slightly different, that is a warning sign.
Can I fall victim to a scam even through a large, seemingly trustworthy company?
Yes — fraudsters copy logos, names, and websites of real companies. Always access companies through an address you type yourself, or through a link from the regulator's register. Never click a link from an unsolicited message.
What is a Ponzi scheme and how do I recognize one?
A Ponzi scheme pays returns to earlier investors using money from new investors — not from real profits. It works as long as new people keep joining. Then it collapses and everyone loses their money. Key sign: unusually high and consistent returns with no clear source of profit.