The Internet is a great tool to research the stock market. It’s also a great tool for stock market fraud. In recent years, there’s been more Internet stock market fraud than Internet stock market research. Let’s face facts and dreams—everyone wants to strike it big, buy low and sell high, and make money through stock market investments. But a word of caution, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Before you become an Internet stock market loss victim, follow these steps before you invest:

1. Be skeptical: When you see an offer on the Internet, consider it a scam until you can prove its legitimacy through your own independent research.
2. Consider the source: Remember that the people touting a stock may be a company insiders or paid promoters who stand to profit at your expense. There is no such thing as a free lunch, insider information, or a guarantee on any return, especially the promise of a high return.
3. Independently verify claims: Don't rely solely on claims by companies or promoters about new product developments, lucrative contracts, or the company's financial health.
4. Beware of high pressure pitches: Watch out for promoters who pressure you to buy before you have an opportunity to fully research an offer.
5. Research the company: Always ask for – and carefully read – the company's prospectus and current financial statements. Companies that are offshore (foreign) are not governed by the SEC or NASD.
6. Confirm registration: Check the SEC's EDGAR database or your state securities regulator to make sure the company is properly registered or legally exempt from registration.

Are you the victim of stock market fraud losses? Most likely you are not alone. Many people had the same dream as you. Contact a stock market fraud lawyer for a free legal consultation to determine how to recoup your stock market losses.