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On January 22, 2026, Iowa Securities Commissioner Charles Edwards held a press conference to address the growing concern of investment scams targeting residents of Iowa. According to Edwards, there has been a noticeable increase in fraudulent schemes in the state, particularly with the rise of online trading platforms and digital currencies.Edwards highlighted the importance of being vigilant when considering investment opportunities, urging Iowans to thoroughly research any potential investment before committing their hard-earned money. "Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their tactics, making it difficult for even seasoned investors to discern between legitimate opportunities and fraudulent schemes," stated Edwards.One of the primary reasons for the uptick in investment scams is the sheer volume of online trading platforms and digital currencies available to the public. With the proliferation of online trading apps and the popularity of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, scammers have found new ways to exploit unsuspecting investors.In addition to online schemes, Edwards also warned about the dangers of pyramid schemes and Ponzi schemes, which continue to pose a threat to Iowa residents. "These types of scams promise quick and high returns on investments, but in reality, they are unsustainable and ultimately collapse, leaving investors with significant losses," explained Edwards.To protect investors from falling victim to these scams, Edwards recommended a number of precautions, including conducting thorough research on the investment opportunity, checking the registration status of the investment and the person offering it, and seeking advice from a financial professional before making any decisions.In response to the increase in investment scams, the Iowa Securities Bureau has launched a public awareness campaign to educate residents about the risks of fraudulent schemes and how to avoid them. The Bureau is also working closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals and companies engaged in fraudulent activities.As the popularity of online trading and digital currencies continues to grow, it is more important than ever for Iowa residents to exercise caution and due diligence when considering investment opportunities. By staying informed and being aware of the warning signs of investment scams, Iowans can protect themselves and their financial future from falling victim to fraud.