Cybercrime Zapadni Balkan Newsletter No. 64

Investment Scams – How to Recognize and Protect Yourself

Investment scams are schemes where fraudsters try to deceive people into handing over their money by promising high and guaranteed returns. Often, these offers sound too good to be true — for example, doubling or tripling your investment in a short time with minimal risk.

However, as the saying goes — if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is a scam.

How do investment scams work?

Some scammers offer investments that don’t actually exist — no fund, no project, no returns. The money you give simply ends up in their pockets.

Others pose as legitimate companies or funds, giving a false sense of reliability. In both cases, investors lose their savings, often the result of years of hard work.

How to spot a potential scam?

• Unsolicited contact — If someone unknown calls, emails, or reaches out via social media with an investment offer, be cautious.
• Pressure to decide quickly — Legitimate investment funds will never pressure you to make a hasty decision. High-pressure tactics are a red flag.
• Friend recommendations — Even if friends say they “made money,” they might also be victims unaware of the scam.
• Unrealistic returns — Offers promising high returns with little or no risk are almost certainly scams.
• Check the company — Always verify if the company is registered and regulated by relevant authorities, such as the Business Registry Agency or the Securities Commission.

A case from the Balkans – “Balkan Capital”

Several years ago, an investment fund named “Balkan Capital” appeared on the Balkan market, promising investments in renewable energy and infrastructure projects with high returns. Unfortunately, it turned out that the fund was not registered nor had official permits. After collecting substantial sums from investors, it disappeared without a trace.

This case still serves as an important example of why it is crucial to verify the credibility of investment platforms and not fall for flashy stories and promises.

What to do if you are a victim?

• Immediately notify your bank.
• File a report with the Prosecutor’s Office for High-Tech Crime and the Ministry of Interior.
• Consider reporting to the Securities Commission.

How to protect yourself?

Be cautious, educate yourself about potential scams, and never invest money in unverified projects. Information and transparency are your best defenses.

Your DefendMe team