How to Report Investment Fraud

The validity of the stock exchange and financial investments depends on honest transactions.

The financial well being and security of all investors in the marketplace rests solely on the shoulders of watchdogs and private investors who take the time to accurately report cases of investment fraud to the correct governing authorities. An accusation or complaint triggers an investigation and may result in putting a stop to an investment fraud or ponzi scheme before other investors lose their money.

Instructions

1. 

   Write or type out a letter and mail it directly to the SEC Complaint Center.

   Send a letter directly to the offices of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The letter should include your full name, mailing address, email address and telephone numbers. You should also include the name of the business or individual you suspect of fraud and note the business or individual's address and contact information. Describe the circumstances of the situation and what you feel may constitute fraud. Mail the information to: SEC Complaint Center, 100 F Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20549-0213.

2. 

   Send complaints through sec.gov.

   Visit the SEC website, sec.gov, and follow links for complaints about fraudulent investment activities. Fill out each section of the online form. You may also send your fraud complain information via email to the address provided on the SEC website.

3. 

   Provide details of the accounts and all transactions you suspect to be fraudulent.

   Provide a thorough account of the investment fraud which took place. Give the name of the individual or brokerage firm as well as the contact information and what type of broker or dealer the firm is. Indicate the type of account or dealings you were involved in, and include the type of fraud you suspect is occurring or has occurred in addition to each date of the alleged activity and any steps you may have already taken to counter the fraudulent activity.

4. 

   A qualified attorney will help you determine whether you have a clear case of fraud.

   Contact a fraud attorney to seek representation for your complaint. Search your local phone book to find a lawyer experienced in investment and financial matters or use an online search engine such as Google, Yahoo or Bing to locate an appropriate representative. The attorney will be able to identify whether or not you have a case, and if you can expect to receive assistance for any funds lost.

References

• US Securities and Exchange Commission: SEC Center for Complaints and Enforcement Tips
• Scambusters: Fraud Avoidance and Reporting Resources
• Investopedia: Investment Scams: Dealing With Investment Fraud