Fraud prevention
Online scams are becoming more convincing. Fraudsters can now use artificial intelligence (AI) to create realistic messages, websites, voices, and videos that appear to come from people or organisations you trust.
Knowing what to look for can help you protect your Deriv account, personal information, and funds.
Know the warning signs
The message looks unusual
Spelling mistakes, poor grammar, unusual formatting, or wording that does not sound professional can indicate a phishing attempt. AI can also produce polished messages with very few mistakes, so good writing alone does not mean a message is genuine.
The link or attachment looks suspicious
Fraudsters may send links that lead to fake websites or attachments containing harmful software. Check website addresses carefully. Fake sites may use domains or spellings that closely resemble legitimate ones.
You are pressured to act quickly
Scammers often create urgency by claiming that your account, money, or an opportunity is at risk. Be cautious if someone pressures you to make a payment, share information, or take action immediately.
You receive an unexpected offer
Treat unexpected claims about rewards, guaranteed returns, unusually low risks, or easy money with caution. If an offer appears unrealistic, verify it independently before taking any action.
The sender is unfamiliar
Fraudulent email addresses and social media profiles can look very similar to genuine Deriv accounts. Check the sender carefully and use Deriv's official website and communication channels to verify information.
Signs of AI-assisted scams
Requests for access to your device
Be suspicious if someone unexpectedly asks you to install software, scan a QR code, follow a link, or give them remote access to your computer or phone.
Fake trading offers
A scammer may spend time building trust before asking you to transfer money or provide account information.
Fake voices and videos
Fraudsters can use AI to imitate the voice or appearance of another person. These are commonly known as deepfakes.
A call or video may appear to feature someone you know, a company representative, or an official. Verify unusual requests through a separate, trusted communication channel before responding.
Personalised phishing messages
Information shared publicly online can be used to create convincing messages designed specifically for you.
Fraudsters may copy Deriv's branding or writing style and direct you to a fake website that looks genuine. Its purpose may be to collect login information, verification codes, or other personal details.
Protect yourself from fraud
Check before you act
Do not let urgency influence your decision. Review unexpected requests carefully before sending money, opening an attachment, or following a link. When in doubt, access Deriv through the official website rather than through a link in a message.
Protect your devices
Keep your operating system, browser, apps, and security software updated. Use antivirus protection and other built-in device security features where available.
Keep your account details private
Never share your verification codes, MT5 password, or other security information with another person. Your Deriv account and Deriv MT5 use separate access credentials, so keep both secure.
Verify who is contacting you
Do not rely only on a person's name, profile picture, caller ID, or the appearance of a website. If you receive an unusual request claiming to be from Deriv, verify it using Deriv's official channels.
If you think you have been scammed
Step 1
Stop further payments or transfers
Do not send any more money to the suspected scammer. Cancel or block pending transactions where possible.
Step 2
Contact your bank or payment provider
Tell your bank or payment provider what happened using their official contact channels. They may be able to block further transactions or advise you on the next steps.
Step 3
Secure your accounts
Change passwords for affected accounts and any other accounts where you have reused the same credentials. Review your devices and accounts for unfamiliar activity.
Step 4
Report what happened
Report the incident to the relevant authorities and contact Deriv if your Deriv account or a person claiming to represent Deriv was involved. You may also want to warn people you know if there is a chance the scammer could contact them using information obtained from you.
Step 5
Be careful of recovery scams
Fraudsters sometimes target victims again by claiming they can recover lost money. Be suspicious of anyone asking you to pay a fee or provide further personal information in exchange for recovering funds.
This guidance covers fraud that may affect your Deriv account and personal information. You should also stay alert to trading scams and fraudulent offers that are not associated with Deriv.
