#Protect yourself from investment scams
An investment scam is fraudulent activity that takes money from someone through deception or criminal activity for their own financial gain. There's no one group of people who are more likely to become a victim of a scam.
Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, taking advantage of new technology and new products or services to create believable stories and investment opportunities, sometimes disguised as reputable businesses.
An important note for Suncorp Investors or potential Investors; DO NOT OPEN suspicious texts, pop-up windows or emails—delete them. If unsure, verify the identity of the contact through an independent source. Don’t use the contact details provided in the message sent to you. Refer to ACCC's Book Of Scams for additional information.
Identifying an investment scam
Investment scams come in many forms including purchasing cryptocurrency like Bitcoin, binary options trading, business ventures, superannuation schemes, managed funds and purchasing shares or property.
Scams often begin with a phone call or email out of the blue.
Be wary if the scammer is offering something that is 'not-to-be-missed', 'once-in-a-lifetime' or 'guaranteed returns', if you're urged to act quickly, or if the offer seems too good to be true.
Scammers often operate from overseas and won't meet in person.
The scammer won't have an Australian Financial Services license.
Scammers often have professional looking brochures or websites, or could be disguised as a reputable company.
Protecting yourself
Don't give details to anyone over the phone or via email offering investment opportunities – hang up or delete the email.
Be alert to the fact that scams exist and can happen to anyone.
Know who you're dealing with, especially if you've only met someone online.
Do your own research on the investment company and check www.moneysmart.gov.au to see whether they have an Australian Financial Services license.
Don't let anyone put pressure on you on where to invest your money.
Ask yourself whether this offer is too good to be true.
If you believe you are a victim of an investment scam, please contact the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) and lodge a report of misconduct here.
Alternatively, please contact Suncorp Investor Relations: investor.relations@suncorp.com.au
By sending an email we may collect personal information from you.