**CySEC Launches Nationwide Campaign to Combat Online Investment Scams**
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) has announced the launch of a nationwide financial awareness campaign aimed at protecting investors from online scams. This initiative is part of World Investor Week 2026 and will take place from October 5 to 11. CySEC will collaborate with regulatory authorities from over 100 countries under the guidance of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO).
This marks the eighth consecutive year that CySEC has participated in World Investor Week, which focuses on enhancing investor resilience and awareness regarding digital deception. The campaign will feature a variety of educational activities, public awareness initiatives, and guidance for investors.
As part of the campaign, CySEC plans to deliver educational presentations at primary, secondary, and technical schools across Cyprus, as well as at universities. These presentations will be part of the sixth cycle of CySEC’s school lecture program, which will run from October through December. The program aims to address key themes such as investor resilience, digital deception, and scam awareness.
In previous cycles, CySEC officers have visited 88 schools, reaching approximately 3,450 students with important financial education. This year, the regulator aims to expand its reach and enhance the financial literacy of young people in Cyprus.
In addition to school presentations, CySEC will implement a dedicated social media campaign that will provide practical guidance to the public. The regulator will also engage in television and radio appearances, as well as publish interviews and articles to further disseminate information about investment risks and scams.
CySEC is set to release a new Guide for Investors and a Smart Investor Handbook, which will encourage regulated entities and partners to help distribute the campaign's messages. All educational materials will be accessible through CySEC’s Financial Education Portal, ensuring that the information reaches a broad audience.
George Karatzias, chairman of CySEC, emphasized the importance of this year’s themes, stating, “This year’s IOSCO themes go to the heart of the challenges investors face today.” He noted that as technology evolves, investors are confronted not only with market volatility but also with increasingly sophisticated forms of digital deception. Karatzias advised that to remain resilient, individuals should conduct independent research, avoid offers that promise high returns with no risk, and only engage with licensed professionals.
The IOSCO campaign highlights the importance of Investor Resilience, promoting disciplined investment behavior, portfolio diversification, and the avoidance of impulsive decisions. The themes of Digital Deception and Scam Alert aim to equip the public with the knowledge to recognize warning signs associated with online investment scams. CySEC's research indicates a significant need for improved public awareness regarding the early identification of such scams in Cyprus.
To further this goal, CySEC has developed interactive online quizzes that allow individuals to assess their knowledge before making investment decisions. These quizzes are designed to enhance awareness about investment risks and digital scams, reinforcing the importance of financial education.
Financial education has been a strategic priority for CySEC, aligning with Cyprus’ National Strategy for Financial Literacy and Financial Education. The campaign is also connected to Thematic Working Group 4 of the Cyprus Financial Literacy and Education Committee (CyFLEC), which is chaired by CySEC.
By coordinating this campaign internationally through IOSCO, CySEC aims to unify financial regulators in their efforts to educate and protect investors. The initiative is a proactive step towards fostering a more informed and resilient investor community in Cyprus, particularly in the face of evolving digital threats.
As the campaign approaches, CySEC encourages all investors, both seasoned and novice, to take advantage of the resources and educational opportunities available during World Investor Week. By enhancing financial literacy and awareness, CySEC hopes to empower individuals to make informed investment decisions and safeguard their financial futures.