Fake investments and AML abuse – don’t become a victim of fraud

Our law firm also specializes in the area of anti-money launderingAMLIn recent months, we have been contacted with increasing frequency by individuals who have fallen victim to investment-related fraud.

If you are uncertain whether you may have been defrauded, we will be pleased to provide you with a consultation.

• What is AML?
• Amendments to the Anti-Money Laundering Act

How an Investment Fraud Exploiting AML Typically Operates – Step by Step

The scenarios tend to follow a similar pattern:

1. The client encounters an apparently advantageous investment offer. (e.g. cryptocurrencies, shares, funds).
2. After registration (providing a telephone number or email), the client is contacted by an “investment advisor” – often via WhatsApp or video call.
3. The advisor requests an initial investment (typically 200–300 EUR) to be transferred to a specified IBAN.
4. The client is shown an “appreciation” of the investment often unrealistically high (tens or even hundreds of percent).
5. A small payout is made to the clientto build trust and encourage further investment.
6. Additional deposits follow often in the thousands or tens of thousands of euros.
7. When the client attempts to withdraw funds he is reassured that the money will arrive within 2–3 days.
8. The client then receives an email stating that the transaction has been blocked due to “AML” and that an additional payment is required to release the funds.
9. Further payments are solicited under various pretexts (fees, taxes, licenses).
10. The “advisor” begins exerting pressure or threatening the client (e.g., with lawsuits or criminal prosecution).

How to Recognize a Fraudulent Investment 

• Verify the company and platform, through which you intend to invest (e.g. obchodný register, Finstat, Transparex).
• Reputable firms do not communicate via WhatsApp, Gmail, or social networks.
• Unrealistically high returns. are a clear red flag
• Public authorities do not contact individuals through messaging applications.
• Never transfer additional funds to “unblock” a withdrawal.
• We recommend following the guidance of the National Bank of Slovakia (NBS).

Five Questions to Ask Yourself Before Investing

• Do I know this company, and is it subject to regulatory oversight?
• Has the platform/company provided me with its terms and conditions?
• Is communication conducted through an official corporate email address?
• Are unrealistic or excessively high returns being promised?
• What are the consequences for me if I lose the invested funds?

What to Do if You Have Already Transferred Funds to a Fraudster?

Unfortunately, in cases of fraud of the type described above, the likelihood of recovering your funds is minimal. Nevertheless, certain measures can be taken to mitigate the consequences or prevent further harm:

• Immediately contact your bank in some cases, a payment may still be stopped.
• Take steps to reduce the risk of misuse of your personal data.
• File a criminal complaint even though the probability of recovery is low, it is important to act.

Every case is unique. If you find yourself in a similar situation, do not hesitate to contact us – we will gladly assist you with specific steps. You can reach us at office@lidaybasaryova.sk