News about the COVID-19 pandemic moves quickly and the sheer quantity of information can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, fraudsters know they can use this uncertainty as an opportunity to make a quick buck. In fact, the SEC has halted trading in dozens of stocks in connection with COVID-19 and has brought charges in several alleged coronavirus scams, including allegations of misleading claims, manipulative trading schemes, and other scams.

“We look forward to sharing our insights about how investors can better protect themselves."

- Marc P. Berger, Director of the SEC’s New York Regional Office

The SEC wants to arm as many people as possible with information to recognize a scam and protect their hard-earned money. The agency’s New York Regional Office will host an educational telephone town hall about avoiding scams related to COVID-19 on June 23, 2020, from 5 to 6 p.m. ET. The call is free and open to all investors.

To participate, go to SEC.gov between 4:30 and 5 p.m. ET the day of the event and click the event link on the home page to join the call. Investors can submit questions for the speakers before the call by emailing SECNYOutreach@sec.gov and are encouraged to share information about this event with family and friends.

Please see the event invitation for more information about the event and check out the latest Investor Alert on frauds relating to COVID-19 to learn about the red flags.