From our daily practice we know that these days, investment scams rarely begin with messages that are obviously shady. On the contrary, they disguise themselves as highly professional offers, trustworthy contacts or seemingly trustworthy recommendations – until the trap snaps shut.
This pattern is also clearly evident in current security analyses: Banks are reporting an increase in targeted fraud attempts within European markets in which perpetrators pose as investment advisors in order to persuade customers to invest via digital channels.
As financial and security experts, we examine the psychological mechanisms behind these systems, and show you how to protect yourself effectively.
The seemingly harmless beginning of a scam
In its initial phase, modern cyber investment fraud hardly differs from legal financial services. Perpetrators use specific psychological triggers to generate interest and build trust.
Typical entry points are:
- Sponsored ads on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Google
- Unexpected contact through supposedly courteous brokers
- Fake recommendations or manipulated content on news sites
This approach also corresponds to observations by regulatory authorities, who regularly warn about fraudulent websites and unauthorized providers.
The three core patterns found in almost every scam
Regardless of the entry point, analyses by financial supervisory authorities (for example, BaFin, FINMA or FCA) almost always identify the same behavior patterns:
Change in channel
Communication quickly shifts from public platforms to private messengers like WhatsApp or Telegram.
Direct payments without real infrastructure
No regulated investment account is opened. Instead, you are asked to transfer money directly or in cryptocurrencies.
Additional demands lead to a downward spiral
After you have made the initial deposit, additional charges are applied (“taxes,” “fees,” “activation”). This exact pattern – delayed payouts and new fees – is considered a classic investment fraud warning sign.
Specific warning signs from everyday banking
In addition to these patterns, our analyses have revealed five warning signals that are very common:
The “trusted advisor” on social networks
Unfamiliar contacts suddenly offer you personal investment advice. Special caution is advised when investment offers are made exclusively via private chats or messenger services.
Fake media reports and well-known brands
Deceptively realistic videos, logos, or news formats are misused to create credibility.
Request for remote access to your device (critical sign)
If a supposed investment advisor or broker demands that you install remote access software, we advise exercising extreme caution. This is a common feature of investment fraud. These tools allow scammers to completely control your device. [fca.org.uk]
Disclosing security codes (one-time password)
A common goal is to authorize your transactions. No reputable provider will ever ask you for such codes.
Additional fees for "withdrawing"
If you want to get your money back and they demand additional payments, it is almost always fraud.
Two real-world scenarios
Case 1: The “financial advisor” WhatsApp trap
- Promise: A return of 5-15% per week
- Method: fake statistics and real IBAN accounts
- Goal: acquiring trust and obtaining a quick deposit
After the transfer, the money is forwarded via international networks.
Case 2: Media and identity misuse (clone firms)
A seemingly trustworthy video leads to a manipulated registration page. An "account manager" guides the investment, including remote access to the computer.
After several payments, contact is broken off.
Official warning signs: when you need to stop immediately
Financial regulators are issuing specific warnings about these patterns:
- Unrealistic returns without risk
- Identity theft by real companies (cloning)
- Request to install remote access software
- Pressure to make quick decisions
These patterns are based on recurring fraud cases that have been documented in warnings by the authorities. [bafin.de]
Your security comes first
Always a clear difference: This is how you can identify reputable providers
This simple rule of thumb can help you:
Reputable financial institutions always have a transparent and reasonable way of operating.
Specifically, this means:
- No investment offers are made via social networks or private chats
- No security codes are passed on
- No one gains remote access to your device
- No additional fees for paying out your own money
Checklist for This is how you can protect your assets
- Registry check: Check providers through official regulators (for example, BaFin)
- Only use your own accounts: Do not transfer money to third-party companies
- Do not rush: Trustworthy investments require time
- If unsure, ask: Talk to your bank
What to do in the event of financial loss?
If you think you might have been a bank fraud victim,
1. contact your bank immediately
Time is crucial – acting early can help stop transactions.
2. Obtain evidence
Document chats, emails, screenshots and transfer details.
3. File a police report
Report it immediately to the police, or an online police website for reporting crime.
4. Inform the authorities
Report the platform to the relevant financial supervisory authority.
Handling an emergency with BBVA: the “golden window”
If you have been a victim of fraud, you need to act as quickly as possible. The quicker a bank is informed, the sooner security or recall measures can be considered. However, success cannot be guaranteed.
Open the official BBVA App and use it to block your card or account. If you need to contact BBVA, always use the App or the phone numbers listed on your card or in the bank's official channels.
Conclusion: Displaying trust is the strongest point of attack
More than 82 million people worldwide trust us with their banking.
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