Client Guidance
Fraud recovery claims: a reality check before paying another fee
People who have already lost money are frequently targeted again by organizations promising guaranteed recovery. Careful verification is essential before sharing evidence, identity documents or further payment.
No investigator controls the outcome
An investigator may identify pathways, counterparties and possible service touchpoints. Freezing, disclosure and recovery usually depend on financial institutions, platforms, legal authority, asset availability and jurisdiction. A guarantee made before evidence review is a serious warning sign.
Demand a defined scope
A credible proposal should explain what information will be reviewed, what deliverables will be produced, what assumptions apply and what falls outside the engagement. Vague references to special access or private recovery networks should be independently verified.
Verify identity and payment instructions
Check the legal entity, professional history, domain age, contact channels and recipient bank details independently. Do not rely only on documents or links provided by the person requesting payment.
- Confirm the contracting entity
- Check whether claims can be independently sourced
- Ask who performs the technical work
- Avoid payment to unrelated personal accounts
Protect the evidence you share
Case files can contain passports, bank statements, wallet information and private communications. Ask how data will be transferred, stored, accessed and deleted, and share only what is necessary for the agreed review.
Treat pressure as information
Urgent payment demands, secrecy instructions, unexplained taxes and claims that funds will disappear within hours are common pressure mechanisms. Pause, preserve the communication and obtain independent advice before sending additional money.