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Sure Fire Way To Spot a Fraud: Look for the SEC Seal

Posted on April 9, 2015 by Doug Cornelius
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sec fraud

The Securities and Exchange Commission does not “approve” or “endorse” any particular securities, issuers, products, loans, services, professional credentials, firms or individuals. The SEC does not allow private entities to use its government seal. Yes, the staff of the SEC regularly meets with public companies, regulated entities, and others. Some of these investments and entities are required to be registered with the SEC.

But, the SEC never endorses an investment. Registration of a security does not imply its a good investment. Registration as an investment adviser does not mean you give good advice.

Investment advisers are required to include this statement on their Form ADV:

The information in this Brochure has not been approved or verified by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or by any state securities authority. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training.

Any claim – stated or implied – that the SEC has endorsed an investment is completely false. You are likely looking at part of a fraudulent scheme.

Sources:

  • Updated Investor Alert: Beware of Companies Using the SEC Seal
  • Fake Seals and Phony Numbers: How Fraudsters Try to Look Legit
  • SEC Warns of Fake Correspondence
  • Beware Investment Offers Implying SEC Endorsement

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