BISMARCK – The North Dakota Securities Department is warning the public about a new investment scam involving fake “investment education foundations” that lure investors with promises of education on stocks and cryptocurrency, “risk-free” trials and loans.

The main goal of the scammers is to persuade investors to invest their own money into the platform as well as take out fake loans, paying exorbitant commissions, according to Tim Karsky, North Dakota Securities Commissioner.

“The rise of fake ‘investment education foundations’ is a concerning trend that preys on investors’ desire to reduce the risk of investing in cryptocurrency,” Karsky in a department news release. “These scams often promise guaranteed returns and sophisticated advice, but they are designed to deceive. It’s crucial for investors to remain vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited offers before handing over their money.”

Information from the department stated the scam typically starts with social media ads leading to WhatsApp groups managed by a fake founder and bots. The founder provides investment lessons, eventually introducing a fraudulent cryptocurrency exchange. Investors are enticed to test a proprietary AI bot with “free” tokens, which generate fake profits, leading to real money investments. If funds are lacking, fake loan providers on Telegram offer loans deposited directly onto the exchange. Investors can’t withdraw profits until they repay these fake loans or commissions, with accounts frozen for fake regulatory reasons. The scam is eventually shut down and restarted under new names.

Scammers legitimize their operations using real government and professional documents, including registration with the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. They may also post articles online to appear legitimate and use old website domains to seem established.

The Securities Department urges investors to exercise caution before responding to unsolicited investment offers, especially those received through social media, emails or phone calls.

“Do not assume an education foundation is trustworthy just because it is promoted on social media,” Karsky said. “Contact the North Dakota Securities Department to check if the education foundation and cryptocurrency exchange are registered.”