February 7, 2023
Technical Staff
Fraud has become a common problem in modern society, with numerous cases making headlines and causing significant financial and emotional harm to individuals and organizations. The recent FTX fraud scandal emphasizes the need for increased awareness and education on the subject.
Here are the five lessons derived from the Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) fraud scandal:
1. Do your due diligence: Investing in a company requires careful research and analysis, mainly when dealing with complex cryptocurrency-related industries. Investors should be wary of individuals or companies that claim to be “geniuses” or “savants.”
2. Trust but verify: Despite a person’s background or credentials, verifying their claims and promises is essential. The SBF scandal highlights the need for investors to be cautious of those who appear too good to be true.
3. Don’t be swayed by media portrayals: Publicity profiles, media adulation, and even philanthropy should not be used as the sole basis for trusting a person or investing in a company. The media may not always provide a complete picture of a person or company’s intentions or activities.
4. Avoid investments outside established regulatory environments: Companies operating in countries with favorable regulatory environments may not be subject to the same level of oversight as those in other countries. This can increase the risk of financial fraud.
5. Be aware of red flags: Signs of extravagance and living beyond one’s means can be red flags that a person or company may not be as they seem. Additionally, undisclosed leverage, significant losses, and a close-knit group of executives may indicate potential problems.
Photo by Alesia Kozik: https://www.pexels.com/photo/gold-coins-on-book-page-6771293/
