The International Organization of Securities Commissions published a statement calling on online platform providers, including search engines, social networks and app providers, to step up efforts to reduce retail investor harm from investment fraud promoted through paid advertisements and user-generated content. IOSCO framed the issue as a growing risk associated with increased retail participation and digital distribution of financial products and services, and urged action consistent with local law to limit pecuniary losses and protect market integrity. A central tool highlighted is the IOSCO International Securities and Commodities Alerts Network (I-SCAN), launched in March 2025 as a global database of unlicensed firms and illegal financial activity, which platforms could connect to automatically to block, warn against or remove illegal investment offerings. IOSCO encouraged measures already used in some jurisdictions, including due diligence on advertisers and unauthorised offerings using I-SCAN and regulatory warning lists, rigorous enforcement of platform terms through monitoring and swift removals, updated internal detection policies and tools, compliance with applicable local laws, and direct communication channels with regulators to support information sharing and referrals.

Original source View in tracker