15/05/2026
Please be careful out there🤨🥴
“There’s a cost-of-living crisis and it’s making people desperate, and it’s across the board, there’s no ‘typical’ victim of a scam.”
We spoke with James Squire (pictured) our Cybercrime and Fraud Co-ordinator about investment fraud – a scam that has a huge impact on victims.
Criminals will contact people to advertise fake investment opportunities, whether it’s crypto, gold or even high-end goods like wine.
“The people behind these scams are incredibly good at manipulating people,” James said.
“They start out by suggesting the victim dips their toe in with a small investment – perhaps £50.
“For that first investment, they’ll transfer money to the victim to try to convince them to ‘invest’ more.
“It will then escalate, and ultimately they’ll string the victim along until they make a huge investment – potentially using life savings or pension funds.
“This time, the money won’t be returned, the scammers disappear off.
“I’ve seen anyone and everyone fall victim to this kind of scam, from people in their thirties to a 75-year-old man.
“People often think ‘I’d never fall for this’ – but it’s important to remember that the criminal groups behind these scams are very sophisticated, and they are frighteningly effective at manipulating and coercing victims.
“Prevention is always better, and I’d encourage everyone reading this to follow the link below to learn some more about how to spot this scam, and how to protect yourself from it.”
Learn more about investment scams here: https://orlo.uk/eb8i0
