Recovery Checklist for Investment Fraud Victims

Each year in the United States, a number of investors become unsuspecting victims of fraudulent investment schemes and various securities law violations. There are some instances where investors may be eligible to receive funds recovered from the fraudsters. There are a number of SEC protections that help investors, but not everyone will be able to recover money. And, those who do often receive substantially less than what they lost.

Even if you haven’t personally been a victim of an investment scam, you may be privy to information about securities law violations currently happening. This means you could be eligible to pursue what’s called an SEC whistleblower action. This could also lead to a potential recovery.

If you have been the unfortunate victim of investment fraud, here are some useful tips to help you regain your losses from these criminals and hopefully move on.

Start by Creating a Fraud File

One of the most important things you can do is create a file that lets you store all relevant information and documentation related to the matter. Ensure it is kept in a safe and secure location. The information should include everything from the fraudster’s name to his or her fake regulatory registration numbers. If you have a police report, include that. Take copies of your current credit report, cell phone records, etc., and include all that in the file.

Familiarize Yourself with your Rights

Depending on your case, there may be both federal and state laws that offer some rights to you as a victim. Because every situation is different, speaking with a knowledgeable Florida securities litigation attorney is important. He or she can help you understand your potential rights and what your chances are at recovering any of your financial investments.

Reporting the Fraud

Reporting the fraudulent incident(s) is also very important. In the event you plan to pursue an SEC whistleblower action, there are specific reporting guidelines that must be followed, which is another reason it’s beneficial to retain an attorney from the start.

Reporting the fraud to law enforcement is important as well. It can help ensure parties are investigated and charged criminally when necessary. This can also help prevent from other people getting scammed by the same fraudsters. Be sure to set reminders and follow up in a month or so with law enforcement agencies and any potential victims’ organizations that might be able to assist you.

Retaining a Business Attorney

Whether you’ve been a victim of or have knowledge about securities fraud, it’s important to speak with a qualified Florida business litigation attorney who has experience dealing with SEC investment fraud and whistleblower cases. The attorneys at Rabin Kammerer Johnson have decades of experience handling investment fraud and securities law violations. Contact our office at 561-659-7878 to schedule a consultation.

Resource:

sec.gov/oiea/investor-alerts-bulletins/ib_recovermoney.html