I think I remember an old proverb-type thing that said something along the lines of "there is an opportunity around every corner".  For today's times and the cyberworld, that should probably be something like "just a mouse click away".

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How many of those opportunities that you see each day are asking for money?  Probably a very good portion.  Some even asking you to invest your hard-earned money to further the "cause", whatever it may be.  But how many are actually safe?

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Montana Officials Hope to Make Investors Safe in 2026

For Montana investors looking toward the future in 2026, the Commission for Securities and Insurance (CSI) has issued a new list of scams to stay away from in the new year.

Commissioner James Brown is leading the charge to keep Montana residents safe, saying that "As we set goals for the new year — to save more, spend wisely, and invest — let’s also resolve to stay scam-free.  A strong financial future starts with protecting yourself from fraud".

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SIphotography
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Brown also stated, "Scammers never rest — they adapt their tactics to current events, technology, and investor interest.  Our goal is to help Montanans recognize red flags early and protect their hard-earned savings".

See 12 Investment Scams Targeting Montanans' Below in Our Gallery👇

Data Show Cyber Criminals Using New Tactics with Artificial Intelligence

Currently Montana is one of only 6 states that offer restitution assistance for securities fraud.  That assistance amounted to over $100,000 in 2025 to Montana citizens.  For those interested "Montanans can qualify for restitution assistance by visiting the CSI webpage at csimt.gov. While there, one can download and print a copy of the restitution assistance application".

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Getty Images/iStockphoto
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Ultimately, you should always be wary of any investment that might seem just "too good to be true".  Data from the North American Securities Administrators Association backs that up, stating "while scammers are using new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) to dress up their schemes, the goal remains the same: separating victims from their hard-earned money".

Check our gallery below for the 12 big scams Montana investors should be on the lookout for 2026. 👇

12 New Investment Fraud Schemes to Watch Out for in 2026

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. These are the top investment frauds that are making their way into 2026 and beyond. Be wary and always research thoroughly before making any financial decision.

Gallery Credit: JD Knight

Staggering Elderly Victim Fraud Rate in Every State Revealed

Senior citizens are one of the scammers' favorite targets, and with artificial intelligence making it easier to fool even the sharpest among us, those 60 and older are seeing their accounts drained by manipulative and deceptive tactics. VPNPro recently conducted a study, the goal of which was to determine which state in America has seen the most senior scams. Here's a look at the VPNPro's 50 State Ranking for Elder Fraud. For the full methodology, see the #1 state for elder fraud in the United States.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

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Gallery Credit: Chris Cardenas

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