Help & reporting
Report a fake trading platform
Fake trading platforms are convincing software products: live-looking charts, account managers, verification steps and support chat. The fraud is not visible in the interface — it appears at withdrawal.
What this kind of scam is
- The platform displays balances and profits generated by the operator, not by real market positions.
- Deposits are routed to personal accounts, payment processors or crypto wallets rather than segregated client accounts.
- Withdrawals are met with fees, tax demands, 'compliance' checks or sudden account restrictions.
Common warning signs
- You were introduced to the platform by a mentor, group chat, advertisement or new online contact.
- The domain is recent, or is a near-copy of a well-known broker's name.
- You were asked to install remote-access software so someone could 'help' you set the account up.
- Bonuses are credited that lock your balance until a trading volume is met.
- Support pressure increases as soon as you mention withdrawing.
- Regulatory claims cannot be verified on the official register.
Steps to consider now
- 1
Stop depositing immediately
Withdrawal fees requested by the platform are part of the scheme.
- 2
Capture the platform before access is removed
Screenshot balances, trade history, account pages, chats and the payment instructions you were given.
- 3
Remove remote-access tools
Uninstall any screen-sharing or remote-control software and change your passwords from a different device.
- 4
Raise a dispute with your bank, card provider or exchange
Report it in writing and keep their case reference.
- 5
Open a ScamGuide case
Reported platforms are matched against existing records so patterns and linked reports can be identified.
Evidence worth preserving
- Screenshots of every conversation, including profile names, handles and the dates shown.
- Payment records: bank transfer confirmations, card statements, invoices or receipts.
- Cryptocurrency transaction hashes and the destination wallet addresses.
- The website address, app name and any download links you were sent.
- Emails with full headers where possible, plus any documents or contracts you received.
- A short written timeline of what happened and when, made while it is still fresh.
How ScamGuide works
- 1. You submit a structured report through a guided wizard — no legal or technical knowledge needed.
- 2. A private case is created with a reference number, timeline and secure evidence vault.
- 3. A case specialist reviews the details and communicates with you in an encrypted, private thread.
- 4. You explore the recovery and reporting options that realistically apply to your circumstances.
- 5. A sanitised, moderated summary may be published so other people can search it. You are never named.
Frequently asked questions
A displayed balance is not custody. Treat it as a screen the operator controls until an independent withdrawal proves otherwise.
Ready to document what happened?
Reporting is free and takes a few minutes. You can search existing reports first — try a platform domain or broker name.