Educational checklist
Warning signs that deserve an independent review.
Grouped into three clusters. One sign alone does not prove misconduct. Several combined signs justify an independent review before you send — or send more — money.
Cluster 1
Money-movement red flags
How, when and why you are being asked to pay.
- Pressure to transfer funds quickly.
- Guaranteed high returns.
- Refusal to disclose fees.
- Returns presented without full expenses.
- Requests for emergency capital after you've invested.
- Payment dates constantly moving.
- Promised buyback not honoured.
Cluster 2
Documentation red flags
What is put in writing — and what is withheld.
- Contract delivered shortly before payment.
- Documents provided only in a foreign language.
- No independent appraisal.
- Missing financial statements.
- Inconsistent reports.
- Refusal to provide bank or property information.
- Pressure to sign amendments.
Cluster 3
Structural & behavioural red flags
The people, the entities and the way they behave.
- An "exclusive" opportunity with little time to review.
- The promoter discourages independent advice.
- Complex ownership without clear explanation.
- No realistic downside scenario.
- The promoter controls every professional involved.
- Repeated unexplained delays.
- Sudden changes in strategy.
- New entities replacing the original company.
- Investors being told not to communicate with one another.
- Management blaming every problem on the market without evidence.