Affinity Fraud Exploits Common Bonds

Being a victim of fraud in any situation is upsetting enough. When the perpetrator targets you because of a connection the two of you have – like race, religion, ethnicity, age, politics, profession or another common bond – it can feel like an even bigger betrayal. Scams like Ponzi and pyramid schemes often involve members of the con artist’s own demographic group. This is called affinity fraud.

Keeping it in the community

Even people who usually are skeptical of offers that seem “too good to be true” are more likely to let down their guard and trust an individual with a common background. In one case, a Hispanic-operated group in Texas lured fellow Latinos with promised returns of almost 10% per month for investments in nonexistent oil wells. In another, a Colorado investment manager swindled more than $20 million from members of his church — including his own mother — in an elaborate Ponzi scheme.

Although affinity fraud primarily targets individuals, it can also hurt businesses that, for example, hire many immigrants. If employees are defrauded and left penniless, they may be more susceptible to committing fraud of their own in an effort to recoup their losses. Businesses also need to beware of employees and others who use common bonds to solicit “philanthropic” contributions.

Avoid making assumptions

The bottom line: don’t assume you can spot affinity scams. Many are recommended by friends, neighbors and colleagues you may have known for years. Instead:

• Research any investment opportunity or fundraising organization that approaches you
• Refuse to be pressured into making a quick decision
• Be skeptical if you’re asked to keep an opportunity confidential or can’t get anything about it in writing

Finally, if you become a victim of affinity fraud, report it. Many victims of affinity fraud are ashamed to come forward or they try to “keep it in the community” — making it difficult for authorities to stop the fraud and prosecute the criminals involved.

Contact us

If you have questions or believe you may have become a victim of affinity fraud, JLK Rosenberger can help. For more information, call us at (949) 860-9902 or click here to contact us.

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