Italy’s CONSOB Orders Blocking of Three Unauthorized Investment Websites

Italys financial markets regulator, Commissione Nazionale per le Società e la Borsa (CONSOB), has announced the blocking of access to three websites offering unauthorized investment services as part of its ongoing efforts to combat online financial fraud.

Three Websites Targeted

According to the regulator, the following platforms were identified as providing investment services without the required authorization:

• “IG Group 24” – website: https://iggroup24.life and related page https://my.24igg.to
• “Mont Blanc Investment Ltd” – website: https://montblancltd.com and related page https://client.montblancltd.com
• “Activ Markets” – website: https://activmarkets.org and related page https://webtrader.ac-markets-webtraderplatform.org

CONSOB has ordered internet service providers operating in Italy to block access to these websites, preventing local users from reaching the platforms.

Total Blocked Websites Reaches 1,588

With the latest action, the total number of websites blocked by CONSOB has reached 1,588 since July 2019. The authority was granted the power to order such blocks under the “Growth Decree,” which strengthened regulatory tools against unauthorized financial intermediaries operating online.

The measure allows the regulator to act quickly against platforms suspected of offering financial services without proper licensing, helping to protect investors and maintain market integrity.

Rising Sophistication of Online Investment Scams

CONSOB also highlighted the growing sophistication of online financial scams, particularly those leveraging modern digital tools.

Fraudsters are increasingly using tactics such as:

• Cloned emails and imitation websites
• Fake social media profiles of politicians and celebrities
• AI-generated images, voices, or videos
• Manipulated promotional content designed to mimic legitimate financial institutions

These deceptive techniques are often used to mislead investors into transferring money or sharing sensitive personal data, potentially causing serious financial losses.

Investor Caution Urged

The regulator urges investors to verify the authorization status of financial service providers before investing and to remain cautious of unsolicited investment offers found online or through social media.

Authorities continue to stress that due diligence and verification of regulatory licensing remain essential steps in protecting oneself from fraudulent schemes.