AGC analysis
How to avoid precious metals fraud
Regulators warn of high-pressure sales, hidden markups and storage schemes.
American Gold Council · Editorial
Published November 1, 2026 · Updated November 11, 2026
Federal regulators regularly warn consumers about precious metals fraud. Common red flags include high-pressure phone sales, promises of guaranteed returns, and urgency to act today.
Watch for excessive markups on so-called collectible or rare coins, which can be priced far above their gold content and hard to resell.
Be cautious with offers to store metal you never see, and verify that a depository actually holds your specific holdings.
Work with established firms, check complaint histories, and look for independent accreditation before you buy.
Source: CFTC: Precious metals fraud advisory
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