Ten Tips for Investors

1.)    If it sound too good to be true, then it probably is!  Be extremely cautious of telephone sales people or personal visits from anyone promising you a fast profit from immediate investment.

2.)    “Double your money” is most likely a lie. Be skeptical when anyone promises you a quick way to double your investment within a short period of time.

3.)    Say “NO” when someone tells you to “act now or miss an opportunity. Avoid high pressure sells people telling you that you must act right away or you will miss your opportunity to make money.

4.)    Research independently any organization that is going to invest your money. Reputable companies will be happy to have you look into their history. Remember, even written documents and a company history can be fabricated.

5.)    Be cautious of “hot tips,” rumors or inside information that is not public knowledge. Unethical individuals may start false rumors to inflate investment values. 

6.)    Ask for a prospectus or financial statement before you sign any agreement. Read the fine print and make sure you understand all the terms before you buy. 

7.)    Get a opinion from a qualified professional who has no financial interest in the investment. You may want your attorney or other trustworthy person look over the documentation.

8.)    If you have any doubts do not make a promise or commitment until you feel comfortable. It’s much better to miss an opportunity than to move too fast and lose everything. A qualified organization will understand your hesitation.

9.)    Hang up the telephone without guilt. Unsolicited telephone sale people using high pressure methods are invading your privacy Tell unwanted telephone sales people to “put your name on the Do Not Call List”. Do not be afraid to stop communicating with anyone if you feel they have invaded your privacy.

10.)Check to see that any potential organization that is going to be handling your investment is properly licensed and has never violated the law. The State of Florida Comptroller's Office is responsible for investigating potential crimes involving securities, loans, mortgage companies, banks, and other financial institutions, and takes a proactive approach, thoroughly checking out newspaper and TV ads, as well as Internet solicitations. The Comptroller maintains a toll-free hotline number (1-800-848-3792) for consumer complaints.

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