Binary options are derivatives that allow investors to speculate on the direction of an underlying asset, such as a stock, commodity, or currency. The most common binary option is a “call” or “put” option, which gives the investor the right to buy or sell the underlying asset at a specific price on or before a certain date.
Binary options are generally considered high-risk investments because there is often no underlying asset to back up the option’s value. If the underlying asset does not move in the direction predicted by the option holder, they will lose their entire investment. There have been numerous reports of binary options fraud in Australia, with investors losing millions of dollars to unscrupulous brokers. To make sure this doesn’t happen, get more info here.
Fake brokerages
There have been numerous reports of fake brokerages opening up in Australia, promising investors huge returns on their investments. These brokerages often use fake names and addresses and may even create false regulatory bodies to appear legitimate.
Rigged platforms
Another common form of binary options fraud is when a brokerage rigs the trading platform in its favour. Traders can do this in several ways, such as by manipulating the prices of assets or delaying the execution of trades. This fraud is difficult to detect, as it often occurs behind the scenes.
Misleading promotions
Many binary options brokerages use misleading promotions to lure in unsuspecting investors. These promotions often promise high returns with little to no risk. However, these promotions are often too good to be true, leading to investors losing their entire investment.
Pressure sales tactics
Some binary options brokerages use pressure sales tactics to convince investors to trade. It may include offering bonuses for trading or threatening to close an account if a trade is not made. These tactics can often be very persuasive and lead to investors making impulsive decisions they may regret later.
Withdrawal issues
Another common issue investors face with binary options brokerages is problems withdrawing money from their accounts. In some cases, brokerages may refuse to process a withdrawal request or may only allow a partial withdrawal. It can often be very frustrating for investors, as it can mean they cannot access their own money.
Account hacking
Another severe issue reported is account hacking, which occurs when a third party gains access to an investor’s binary options account and trades on their behalf. It can often lead to substantial losses, as the hacker may not consider the investor’s best interests.
Phishing scams
Phishing scams are another common type of fraud that can occur in the binary options market. These scams typically involve an email or website that looks legitimate but is designed to steal personal information such as login credentials. Once the scammer has this information, they can access the victim’s binary options account and make trades on their behalf.
Fake regulatory bodies
There have been cases of fake regulatory bodies being created to scam binary options investors. These fake agencies often use similar names or logos to legitimate regulatory bodies, such as the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). However, these fake agencies are not authorised to offer financial services in Australia and do not have the investor’s best interests at heart.
How to avoid binary options fraud
Do your research
Investors must do research before investing in any financial product, which includes reading about the product, researching the company offering the product, and reading reviews from other investors.
Be wary of promises of high returns with little risk
Investors should be wary of any company that promises high returns with little risk. These offers are often too good to be accurate and can lead to substantial losses.
Only invest what you can afford to lose
Investors should only ever invest what they can afford to lose, which will help limit the amount of financial damage if something goes wrong.
Use a regulated broker
Investors should only use a regulated broker, ensuring that the broker is subject to specific standards and provides some protection if something goes wrong.
Check the company’s credentials
Investors should check the company’s credentials before investing. It includes checking whether the company is registered with ASIC and reading reviews from other investors.