Europe & regulation
Reporting investment fraud in Europe: who does what?
Police, financial supervisors and providers have different roles.
By Block Claim Group Editorial Team · Published 4 October 2026
AI-generated conceptual artwork; not a real case, client, employee or investigation.
The short answer
An investment-fraud report may involve several organisations. The payment provider can assess its own transactions and security controls. Local law enforcement can receive a criminal report. A national financial supervisor can receive information about unauthorised activity or misuse of a regulated firm's identity.
What to check and preserve
Use official websites to find the correct channel in your country. Give each recipient a concise chronology and the identifiers relevant to its role. Keep separate references and dates for the bank, exchange, police and regulator. ESMA directs victims toward local law enforcement, national authorities, consumer organisations and legal professionals.
Limits and important distinctions
Reporting is not the same as opening a private civil claim or obtaining reimbursement. ESMA says it cannot deal with individual investment fraud cases. A report may help broader enforcement even if the reporter does not receive regular investigation updates. Ask each body what follow-up is available rather than assuming it will recover your loss.
Checklist
- Contact the relevant provider promptly.
- Find local police reporting guidance.
- Inform the competent national financial authority.
- Track every report reference separately.
Official sources
This article is general educational information, not legal, financial or tax advice. Every situation differs, and no outcome, including recovery of funds, can be guaranteed. Consider speaking with a qualified professional and your local authorities.
AI-assisted educational content based on the linked official sources. It is not individual legal, financial or tax advice. Rules and provider procedures may change.
Written by the Block Claim Group Editorial Team under our editorial policy.
