The Growing Problem of Investment Scams in Canada

Investment scams continue to affect many Canadians. Scammers promise huge returns through fake stocks, forex, crypto, or trading platforms, causing victims to lose significant money. Often, the same scammers then pose as licensed firms offering to recover lost funds, only to exploit victims further.

With crypto scams rising, staying vigilant is crucial.

What Are Investment Recovery Scams?

These scams involve fraudsters pretending to be recovery agents who claim to help retrieve lost money but instead seek more payments or sensitive data.

Legitimate vs. Fake Recovery Agents in Canada

Legitimate agents:

• Operate transparently, usually on a success-fee basis
• Never ask for passwords or private keys
• Provide verifiable credentials and licenses

Fake agents:

• Phish for personal info
• Use fake testimonials and pressure victims for repeated payments
• Use poor websites or impersonate authorities

Why Are Recovery Scams Increasing in 2025?

• More victims seeking help
• Confusion around crypto recovery
• Regulatory gaps enabling fraud

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify firms with Canadian professional bodies
• Avoid upfront payments without license confirmation
• Keep personal info private
• Consult trusted legal or financial advisors
• Beware of guarantees or quick fixes

Verifying a Recovery Company

• Use Corporations Canada to check federal incorporation
• For provincial companies, check provincial registries
• Example: Verify United Asset Protection INC. on Corporations Canada

If Targeted by a Scam

• Stop communication immediately
• Report to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
• Inform your bank
• Contact verified, Canadian recovery professionals

Final Thoughts

Investment recovery scams can worsen your losses. In 2025, the best defense is knowledge, caution, and verifying every recovery service carefully.