Report to the SEC
Last updated September 18, 2026
The short answer
Report investment fraud, Ponzi schemes, and fake trading platforms
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigates investment fraud, Ponzi schemes, unregistered securities offerings, and fake trading platforms. If someone sold you a fraudulent investment, promised guaranteed returns, or operated a fake crypto trading platform, report it to the SEC.
What they handle
- Investment fraud and Ponzi schemes
- Unregistered securities offerings
- Fake or unregistered trading platforms
- Cryptocurrency investment scams
- Insider trading tips
- Fraudulent investment advisors
How to file a report
- 1
Go to sec.gov/tcr
This is the SEC's Tips, Complaints, and Referrals portal. You'll be directed to the current TCR submission page.
- 2
Create an account or submit anonymously
You can file with your name or as an anonymous tip.
- 3
Describe the fraud
Explain what investment was offered, who offered it, how you were contacted, and how much money was involved.
- 4
Upload supporting documents
Attach screenshots, emails, platform screenshots, transaction records, or any marketing materials you received.
- 5
Submit your complaint
The SEC's Office of Market Intelligence reviews tips, complaints, and referrals.
What you'll need
- The name of the company, platform, or person who offered the investment
- How you were contacted and recruited
- The amount of money involved
- Screenshots of the platform, communications, and transaction records
- Any marketing materials, prospectuses, or promises that were made
What to expect
The SEC investigates patterns of investment fraud. If they find enough evidence, they can bring enforcement actions, freeze assets, and sometimes recover money for victims. Large cases and patterns get priority. You may be contacted for more information if your case is part of a larger investigation.