How Precious Metal Scams Work
Scammers who perpetrate precious metal scams:
- Create a false sense of urgency by claiming that metals are in limited supply.
- Do not offer the investors the option of possessing what they bought.
- Advise you to liquidate your pre-existing retirement investments to purchase the precious metals.
- Advise you to invest in precious metals through Self-Directed Individual Retirement Accounts.
What to know before you buy:
- Ask how the financial professional is qualified to provide you with the service.
- Ask how the product meets your financial needs.
- Ask how the financial professional is paid for the service.
Tips to protect yourself:
- The US Government and legitimate businesses will never request that you purchase gold or other precious metals.
- Protect your personal information. Never disclose your home address or agree to meet with unknown individuals to deliver cash or precious metals.
- Do not click on unsolicited pop-ups on your computer, links sent via text messages, or email links and attachments.
Back to Don’t take the bait