FridayOL

Alert: Italian citizens are being targeted by a sophisticated phone scam impersonating former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and his Fininvest holding company. Scammers are attempting to lure victims into investing €250 in fake shares, falsely claiming endorsement and guarantees from both Berlusconi's family and the Italian government.

The Scam: The fraudulent calls typically begin with a persuasive pitch, promising high returns on a limited-time investment opportunity in Fininvest shares. Victims are told that the Berlusconi family is personally promoting the offer and that the Italian state provides a guarantee, creating a sense of urgency and trust. The requested investment amount is initially set at €250, but scammers often pressure victims to increase the sum.

Fininvest's Response: Fininvest has strongly condemned the scam, issuing a public statement denouncing the fraudulent activity and warning the public against participating. The company confirmed that it has no involvement in any such investment scheme and that the claims made by the scammers are entirely false. They have reported the incidents to the relevant authorities and are actively working to identify and prosecute those responsible.

Red Flags to Watch Out For:

• Unsolicited Calls: Be wary of unexpected phone calls offering investment opportunities, especially those claiming to be from well-known figures or companies.
• Pressure Tactics: Scammers often use high-pressure sales tactics, urging you to act quickly and limiting the time available to consider the offer.
• Guarantees of High Returns: Be skeptical of any investment that promises guaranteed high returns, as this is a common tactic used by scammers.
• Requests for Immediate Payment: Legitimate investment opportunities will not pressure you to make an immediate payment without proper due diligence.
• Claims of Government Endorsement: Be extremely cautious of claims that the Italian government is endorsing or guaranteeing the investment.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Never Share Personal Information: Do not provide any personal or financial information to unsolicited callers.
• Verify the Source: If you are unsure about the legitimacy of a call, contact the company or individual directly through official channels (e.g., their website or a publicly listed phone number).
• Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious calls or scams to the Italian police (Carabinieri or Polizia di Stato) and to the relevant consumer protection agencies.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Share this information with your friends and family to help them avoid becoming victims of this scam.

The authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately. This latest scam highlights the importance of exercising caution when dealing with unsolicited investment offers and of verifying the legitimacy of any claims made by callers. Protect your savings and avoid falling victim to these deceptive tactics.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.