We were taught at our very young ages to look left and right before crossing the street; pay attention to the brightly colored cross walker that guided us, and the bus lights accompanied by the electrically pulled-out stop sign with the intent of restraining us from crossing the street. Now, in our older years concerns about money and internet scams, prompt us to keep an eye on the predators that prey upon us, like the bully at school after our lunch money.



Affinity frauds are the just some of the lions in the grass eyeing us like scrumptious meat. Affinity frauds pounce on the identifiable and very specific groups in the money markets, factions of religion, ethnicity and demographics. It is a new type of fraud in the Forex market that is being heavily watched. Some brokers play in the field of predators offering alleged investment opportunities to specific areas claiming affinity (similarity, likeness) towards them, to lure in a comfort feeling as in to better be able to reel them like fish to the hooked worm.

In a world of many peoples' the enormity of true connection is easily portrayed; via emailing, instant messaging and so on the quick and easy route to get things accomplished and get people connected is as effortless as watching ice cream melt in the son on a hot summer day. Individuals who are making investments with Forex brokers, or other types, need to be fully aware of this, and must carefully research the companies, regulators, and capital of their new found brokers, traders or investors.

A typical move from these swindlers is actually being legitimate with a few real customers, forming the bond, working with them hand in hand, getting the testimonials, and then using that as collateral to fetch others. Unfortunately for the "others" they are the lucky one's to be embarked on a fraud that can lead to damages they cannot live with. All too common in this situation is the lack of notifying the authority but instead trying to fix issues within the group, leaving them quickly shorthanded and alone.

Ways to avoid Affinity Frauds

1) The first thing to do, which I feel is the most important, before investing ANYTHING, is to call and ask your state or provincial security agencies about the sales person, firm or company. This is a simple maneuver, and can save a heap of you a good chunk of money. First, ask if the investor or company is registered, and then see if the investment is allowed to be sold. If not completely back away, those investors have a way with words, and do not care in anyway for you. DO your research!

2) Obtain written information from the investor on the procedures of the investment, risks of the investment, and procedures on getting your money out!

3) Ask for professional advice, from an attorney, accountant, financial planner; be it through a friend or you pay them, you are much better off.

4) Pay attention to dates of testimonials, names, and the testimonials, earlier folks the investor had that were legitimate could be incredibly enthusiastic, however later arrivals may not be so pleased. Also check for repetitive names, and odd names. Be AWARE!