The Italian Securities and Exchange Commission (Consob) has issued a warning regarding unauthorized brokers operating illegally within the country. The announcement comes as part of the regulatory body’s ongoing efforts to protect investors from fraudulent activities and unscrupulous financial practices.
Consob has identified several unlicensed brokers that are offering investment services without the necessary authorization. These unauthorized brokers are operating within Italian premises, targeting unsuspecting investors and luring them into investing their money in fraudulent schemes.
Consob has warned investors to be cautious and not fall for the enticing promises of these unauthorized brokers. The regulatory body has also urged investors to check the legitimacy of any financial service provider before engaging with them. This can be done by checking Consob’s list of authorized entities or by contacting Consob directly to verify the credentials of a particular broker or investment firm.
CONSOB has issued orders for the blocking of access to 4 new investment websites that target Italian investors without having the necessary authorization to do so.
FINTECH MARKET
FIRST TRADE
PRIME MARKETS
TREZO CAPITAL
In issuing the orders, the Authority made use of the powers deriving from the “Decreto crescita” (“Growth Decree”; Law no. 58 of 28 June 2019, Article no. 36, paragraph 2-tendencies), on the basis of which Consob can order Internet service providers to block access from Italy to websites offering financial services without the proper authorization.
The number of websites blacked out since July 2019, when Consob got the power to order the blocking of access to the websites of fraudulent financial intermediaries, has thus risen to 866.
Investors are reminded by Consob’s advice of the value of exercising caution when making financial purchases. Before spending their hard-earned money, investors must exercise due research, and they should never use unregistered agents or companies.
The regulating authority has also encouraged investors to contact the police right away if they notice any strange behavior or potential scam plans. This will make it easier for Consob to take the required steps to put an end to the shady activities of unlicensed dealers and safeguard clients from monetary losses.
In conclusion, Consob’s statement serves as an opportune warning for buyers to exercise caution when making financial purchases. Before working with any dealer or financial company, it is essential to confirm their qualifications. You should also alert the authorities to any suspicious behavior. Investors can safeguard themselves from dishonest practices and make sure that their hard-earned money is put into reliable and legal financial plans by doing this.