CNPF warns Moldovan citizens about investment fraud using the image of famous people and other fraudulent schemes
In particular, the National Financial Market Commission (CNPF) drew citizens' attention to the spread of misleading advertising on the Internet and social networks that imitates the visual style of some media outlets and abuses the names and images of famous personalities (e.g., Mircea Snegur, Maia Sandu, Alexandru Munteanu, etc.) to promote alleged “investment” opportunities through fraudulent platforms such as Harmony Bitspire and Nexura AI. CNPF states that this information is false and constitutes attempts at online fraud. Such schemes rely on the use of the image of famous people, combined with deceptive marketing techniques and psychological pressure, to create a false impression of credibility and gain public trust in order to persuade people to transfer money or disclose personal and financial data. The main signs of possible investment fraud include incomplete or difficult-to-verify information about the advertised platform, promises of guaranteed income or unrealistic returns, and the absence of any authorization or supervision by a competent authority. CNPF lists common manipulation tactics. To increase trust, false elements are presented as facts, such as the existence of a “bequest” or “innovative programs” of financial support, references to false state programs. Tactics are used to increase interest and psychological pressure: unrealistic promises of quick profits, messages about “limited offers,” pressure to make immediate transfers under the pretext of a missed opportunity. Emphasis is placed on technological innovations based on artificial intelligence to create the impression that the promised (false) income is now possible thanks to IT innovations in finance. The following methods are also used to attract potential victims: creating fake images, videos, or documents, as well as creating clones of official websites. CNPF recommends that citizens always verify the authenticity of the platforms and organizations that contact them; never provide bank, personal data, or confirmation codes on websites or to unknown persons; do not transfer money to “investment platforms” without thorough prior verification. “If you discover such platforms, immediately report them to CNPF and/or the police. If you have been a victim of fraud, report it to the police. Financial education is the best protection. Inform your family and friends to prevent the spread of such fraudulent schemes,” CNPF emphasized. // 20.02.2026 — InfoMarket
