Learning Resources

Spot and Avoid Fraud
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That “wrong number” text or “like” you receive from an attractive stranger may be from an international criminal organization using a fake name and photo. These gangs have stolen billions of dollars by posing as long-distance friends or romantic interests. Learn the warning signs.
Spot and Avoid Fraud
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Ignore social media influencers or trading platforms that claim AI-created algorithms can generate large, guaranteed returns. These are common red flags of fraud. Here are four steps you should take before trusting your money to trading platforms or AI bot sellers.
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More people lose money to frauds on social media than any other forms of engagement. This panel of fraud and disinformation experts discuss what makes social media an effective platform for fraud, and what regulators, educators, and users can do to stem the tide. [1:15:05]
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Maybe you’re ready to let AI take the wheel of your trading and investment journey, but is AI capable of making your financial decisions? This panel of experts discuss how good AI is it at spotting hazards or sharp turns in market direction. [58:50]
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The SEC, CFTC, FINRA, National Futures Association, Securities Investor Protection Corporation, and the North American Securities Administrators Association have teamed up to provide investors with information about the three themes of World Investor Week 2023, a global campaign promoted by the Inte
Precious Metals
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Trading in precious metals such as gold, silver, or palladium can be a legitimate way to diversify your portfolio, but the market is volatile and also has its share of fraud. Beware of dealers’ lofty promises of easy profits or doomsday threats of a faltering economy.
Spot and Avoid Fraud
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Criminals have been posing as CFTC staff to pressure people into paying fictious fees and taxes. These frauds often revictimize people who have already lost money to other schemes. Learn how to spot and report the imposters.
Spot and Avoid Fraud
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Criminals committing fraud are trying to recruit people to receive and transfer money from their digital wallets, trading, or other personal accounts. Moving money for illegal purposes, even unknowingly, is against the law and participants could face serious consequences.
Bitcoin and Digital Currencies
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If someone on social media or a messaging app directs you to a cryptocurrency or foreign currency trading website, look for these 10 telltale signs to help you determine if it’s a scam.
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This two-panel virtual event was held in recognition of World Investor Week 2022. The first panel explores recent trends in digital assets and meme investing. The second panel discusses the Future of Money featuring experts from several federal agencies. [2:15:47]
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The CFTC, National Futures Association, SEC, FINRA, and the North American Securities Administrators Association offer five tips to increase your resilience as an investor.
Bitcoin and Digital Currencies
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Remember, the digital asset marketplace is largely unregulated and fraud is a significant risk. Avoid websites or advisers that display these common red flags.
Bitcoin and Digital Currencies
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The more you understand the risks of your investment, the more effectively you can minimize their potential effects. Here are some common risks associated with digital assets.
Bitcoin and Digital Currencies
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Before investing in digital assets, it’s critical to understand the technology and differences between them. Here are 10 key terms to help get you started.
Forex
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The Commodity Futures Trading Commission advises the public to thoroughly research over-the-counter foreign exchange (“forex”) dealers before making initial deposits or handing over sensitive personal information.
Spot and Avoid Fraud
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In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the CFTC reminds the public that fraud criminals often target the life savings of older adults. Here are three recent frauds targeting seniors, and steps you can take to protect yourself or others.
Bitcoin and Digital Currencies
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A bitcoin futures exchange-traded fund (ETF) issues publicly traded securities that offer exposure to the price movements of bitcoin futures contracts.
Spot and Avoid Fraud
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Fraudsters are using dating apps, social media, and messaging app “wrong numbers” to lure victims into trading scams. Read how they do it and get 10 tips to protect yourself and your money.
Bitcoin and Digital Currencies
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A bitcoin futures exchange-traded fund (ETF) issues publicly traded securities that offer exposure to the price movements of bitcoin futures contracts.
Spot and Avoid Fraud
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The CFTC, SEC, National Futures Association, FINRA, and the North American Securities Administrators Association encourage professionals, teachers, and others to promote these five investor education topics during global recognition week.
Spot and Avoid Fraud
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If you have fallen victim to a fraud, offers to recover your lost funds can turn out to be just another scam. Here are the warning signs you should look for and tips to help you avoid recovery frauds.
Bitcoin and Digital Currencies
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The CFTC and SEC urge investors considering a fund with exposure to the Bitcoin futures market to weigh carefully the potential risks and benefits of the investment.
Futures Market Basics
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Speculative trading is always risky, but mixing it with unfamiliar markets, leverage, and advice from anonymous individuals online could be a recipe for disaster. Here are seven things to consider before placing any trade that involves commodity futures or physical commodities like precious metals.
Precious Metals
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Some unregistered gold and silver dealers are advising investors to use relaxed retirement plan distribution rules in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) to buy precious metals. But customers should talk to qualified retirement, tax, or legal advisors first.
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The mission of the CFTC is to promote the integrity, resilience, and vibrancy of the U.S. derivatives markets through sound regulation.