News Release

Vancouver - The British Columbia Securities Commission is publishing an Investment Caution List to warn investors about unregistered companies that have contacted B.C. residents to open brokerage accounts, or buy unqualified investments that may not comply with securities laws.

“The BCSC helps protect investors from unsuitable and potentially fraudulent investments through investor education and warnings,” said Brenda Leong, BCSC executive director. “Investors should always know who they are dealing with and research an investment, before they invest. We encourage investors to immediately report any suspicious investment activity to the BCSC.”

Investors need to be particularly careful when dealing with companies located in offshore jurisdictions. Investigating offshore companies can be complicated and can delay enforcement action. In addition, when money is sent offshore, recovery of investor funds is often difficult or impossible.

The Investment Caution List does not identify all unregistered activity or unqualified securities being promoted in the province. In compiling the Investment Caution List, the BCSC relies on information it receives from the public or other agencies.

Investors are also encouraged to visit www.InvestRight.org, the BCSC’s investor education website, before making an investment decision. The InvestRight website is a
one-stop resource that provides a wide range of tools that helps investors develop critical thinking skills they need to protect themselves. If you have questions or problems with an investment or a financial adviser, please call 604-899-6854 or 1-800-373-6393 (toll-free in BC & Alberta).

The B.C. Securities Commission is the independent provincial government agency responsible for regulating trading in securities within the province. If you have questions, contact Ken Gracey, Media Relations, 604-899-6577.

Learn how to avoid investment fraud at the BCSC's investor education website: www.investright.org.