Publications
The CFTC continually strives to provide effective information and tools to help consumers avoid fraud. Below are some helpful resources on these topics. Bulk orders of certain publications are available free to organizations. If you have questions about any of these resources, please contact [email protected]. These publications should not be resold.
Brochures
Bitcoin Basics
Learn basic information about Bitcoin, the CFTC’s jurisdiction, and how virtual currencies can be a target for fraud and for hackers. If you’re new to Bitcoin, this guide provides an introduction and points you to more information about Bitcoin and its risks. [PDF]
An Introduction to Virtual Currency
A quick guide to virtual currencies that covers how they can be purchased, why they are considered commodities, and what types of fraud can be found in the market. Use this guide to explore the world of virtual currencies and learn about potential risks. [PDF]
The Risks of Buying Gold, Silver and Platinum
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. [PDF]
Foreign Currency Trading Fraud
The Forex market is volatile and carries substantial risks. It is not the place to put any money that you cannot afford to lose, such as retirement funds, as you can lose most or all of it very quickly. [PDF]
Commodity Pool Fraud
Commodity pools use money from several investors to trade commodity futures and options. Before investing, be sure the pool and the pool operators are registered. Find out what to ask and how to check. [PDF]
Advisories
Customer Advisory: Risks of Virtual Currency Trading
Virtual currency is a digital representation of value that functions as a medium of exchange, a unit of account, or a store of value, but it does not have legal tender status. Learn more about the risks associated with this digital asset. [PDF]
Customer Advisory: Beware of “IRS Approved” Virtual Currency IRAs
Be cautious of sales pitches touting “IRS approved” or “IRA approved” virtual currency retirement accounts. Virtual currency prices sometimes experience wild price swings. This volatility is not reduced or limited just because the virtual currencies are held in an IRA. [PDF]
Customer Advisory: Beware Virtual Currency Pump-and-Dump Schemes
Pump-and-dump schemes occur in the largely unregulated cash market for virtual currencies and digital tokens, and typically on platforms that offer a wide array of coin pairings for traders to buy and sell. Learn the warning signs and how these schemes operate. [PDF]
Customer Advisory: There’s Nothing to Like about Scammers on Social Media
Use extra caution when considering trading advice, products or services touted on social media. It’s easy for fraudsters to create a profile that hides their true identity, or use multiple profiles to promote their schemes. Find out what to look for, and how to avoid getting lured into their frauds. [PDF]