Dangers of ‘Get-Rich-Quick’ Gold Investment Scams

Dangers of ‘Get-Rich-Quick’ Gold Investment Scams

Police Scotland is urging the public to be vigilant following two recent cases in the North East where individuals lost significant sums to fraudulent gold investment schemes. These scams often promise quick, high returns with minimal risk, but in reality, they are designed to deceive and exploit.

In both incidents, victims were persuaded to invest in what they believed were legitimate opportunities to purchase and trade gold. The fraudsters used convincing websites, professional-looking documents and persuasive sales tactics to gain trust. 

Gold is often marketed as a ‘safe’ investment, but scammers exploit this perception by fabricating credentials, forging certificates and creating false trading histories. They may pressure victims to act quickly, claiming the opportunity is time-limited, or use complex jargon to make the scheme appear credible.

Police Scotland stresses that no genuine investment should require rushed decisions or secrecy. Before committing any funds, always:

If something sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is. Take your time, ask questions and check the facts before parting with your money.

If you believe you have been targeted by an investment scam, contact your bank immediately using a known official number (such as the one on the back of your card) and report the incident to Police Scotland on 101. 

This messaging system is not for reporting crime as responses are not monitored 24/7.  If you have time-critical information regarding the content of the above message, or if you wish to report any other non-urgent matter, please call 101.  In an emergency, call 999.

Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.  The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function.  Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community.  These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues.  They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.