We have received reports of verbo-fx.com and verbofx.com operating a cryptocurrency trading scam.
A New Zealand resident was befriended on Facebook and subsequently contacted via WhatsApp, where they were referred to the trading app VerboCapital-live.
This app appears to fabricate trading profits and inflate account balances to encourage further deposits. It is associated with verbo-fx.com and verbofx.com.
This victim was able to conduct “trial trading” and successfully withdraw a small amount of money. However, later attempts to withdraw funds or access so-called trading profits were unsuccessful.
They were then asked to pay a “cryptocurrency trading tax” to get their money out. After unsuccessful withdrawal attempts, they were locked out of their trading account.
Verbo-fx.com is the subject of a warning issued by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong on 20 December 2024, which noted the company used Hong Kong bank accounts for settlement.
Verbo Capital (Pty) Ltd | Securities & Futures Commission of Hong Kong
This warning was updated on 21 March 2025 confirming verbo-fx.com was an “unregistered/unlicensed entity offering financial products or services”.
Verbo Capital (Pty) Ltd | IOSCO Warning
We have identified multiple websites that are part of this scam and believe more may be connected. This scammer may also change social media accounts or platforms being used to solicit victims.
This warning will be updated as the FMA is made aware of further websites and social media accounts associated with the scam.
We recommend extreme caution when dealing with any of these websites or platforms, or social media profiles listed below.
Before approaching any trading platforms or exchange providers, always check the Financial Service Provider Register to see if they are registered to provide financial products and services to New Zealanders.
See Financial Service Provider Register
