Which combination is a clear warning sign of possible investment fraud?
Correct answer
Answer B: Guaranteed high returns plus more payments before withdrawal.
Quick explanation
On many fraudulent platforms, the displayed balance is just a number on a website. New 'fees' or 'taxes' to unlock it are meant to make the victim keep paying.
Detailed explanation
Investment fraud often uses two successive promises. First, exceptionally high, fast or supposedly risk-free returns are advertised. A website shows rising balances even though no real investment may be taking place. Small withdrawals may be allowed to build trust.
Once the victim wants to withdraw a larger amount, the platform demands extra payments: supposed taxes, security deposits, insurance, proof of liquidity or release fees. Each payment is followed by another reason. The displayed profits are then not available wealth but part of the manipulation.
The warning sign is not a single normal fee. Legitimate services can have transparent costs. What matters is the combination of guarantees, unrealistic returns, no verifiable regulation and extra payments appearing only after a withdrawal request. Someone who has already paid should send no more, preserve evidence and report the case to the relevant authorities. Supposed recovery firms can also be a second advance-payment scam.
Example or everyday application
An app shows 40,000 euros in profit. Before withdrawal, it demands first 2,000 euros in tax and then 3,000 euros for insurance. The balance is probably only a display.