TOPEKA — Kansas Securities Commissioner Marc Wilson has issued the state’s annual list of investment traps. Wilson said con artists have been targeting the elderly, investors who have lost money and are trying to regain it, or people who have recently received large sums of money from inheritance, insurance or other settlements. “Knowledge, healthy skepticism and an understanding of your investment needs are a triple threat to fraudsters,” Wilson said. “Never give in to a hard sell that makes you uncomfortable — have the courage to say ‘no’ until you have time to investigate. Never accept that anyone can give you a ‘guaranteed’ return, and remember that only the likes of Bernie Madoff use ‘secret’ investment strategies.” Investors should also be wary of investment pitches occurring after dramatic life events, like the loss of a home or a loved-one, Wilson said. The caller often knows the person has come into some money, he said. He said to be particularly careful about those selling complicated investments, green technology, oil and gas, and precious metals. The state stock fraud hot line is 1-800-232-9580.
Monday, Aug. 9, 11 a.m.
