The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) is warning investors about inflated stock scams in the capital markets. The Authority says that individuals illegally use hype and misleading information to take advantage of investors and manipulate the price of shares.

Typically, an individual behind a scheme will purchase a large number of shares in a company that has lower trading volume and generally a lower price. They are often referred to as penny stocks. The individuals will manipulate the price and drive the share price up. At that point, the individual will sell all their shares, take the money and disappear. The hype will then stop, trading will be minimal, and the share price will drop drastically. Investors who purchased shares during the price spike will then be left with shares that are worth substantially less than what they originally paid.

Here are some tips to protect yourself:
• Be wary of relying on press releases, emails, chat room discussions and promotional materials such as blogs and newsletters from unknown sources. These materials typically provide only positive information and rarely talk about the risks.
• Individuals use paid promoters to flood social media platforms and create excitement about the stock. Know exactly what you are investing in. Make sure you understand how the investment, product or service works.
• Get a second opinion and seek professional advice before you invest.
If you have been a victim of an inflated stock scam, contact the FCAA’s Securities Division at 306-787-9492.
For more investor protection information visit here.