CONSOB Blocks 21 Unauthorized Websites as Online Trading Risks Continue

Italys financial markets regulator has ordered internet service providers to block access to 21 unauthorized websites, warning that a number of online platforms may be offering financial and trading services without approval.

The Italian Companies and Exchange Commission, known as CONSOB, said the latest blocking orders target websites suspected of operating outside the country‘s regulatory framework. The move forms part of the regulator’s continuing action against unlicensed online financial operators that target retail investors.

Unlicensed Platforms Named by the Regulator

According to CONSOB, the websites covered by the latest orders include Settecmanagement, Mercerlimitltd, Shark Investments, Fior Valorenza, Royalassetmanagement, ATF GlobalX, Tibi Pro Secure Investments, and Cumulvenza.

The regulator also named several additional websites operating under short or coded brand names, including RER885, TRUT88, REG775, SDTG99, XZD316, RSD996, FHF326, TYT827, EWTD55, DXGE85, 3VK1O5, SDS323, and KSDF12.

Some of the sites appear to use client portals or webtrader-style pages, a structure commonly seen among online trading platforms targeting retail users. CONSOB has instructed internet service providers in Italy to block access, although the technical process may take several days to complete.

Total Number of Blocked Websites Reaches 1,757

The latest decision brings the total number of websites blocked by CONSOB to 1,757 since July 2019, when the authority was given the power to order the blocking of websites operated by unauthorized financial intermediaries.

CONSOB said it used its legal powers to restrict access to websites that offer financial services to Italian savers without the required authorization.

For forex and CFD traders, such warnings are important because many unlicensed platforms present themselves as international brokers, use professional-looking websites, and provide trading dashboards that resemble legitimate brokerage systems.

Online Fraud Tactics Are Becoming More Sophisticated

CONSOB also warned that deceptive online practices are evolving. The regulator pointed to the growing use of cloned emails and websites, fake profiles of public figures, and artificially generated images, voices, or videos designed to mislead potential investors.

These tactics can make fraudulent platforms look more credible, especially when they imitate established brands or claim to be connected with well-known financial institutions.

In many cases, users are encouraged to deposit funds quickly, provide personal information, or follow investment instructions before verifying whether the company is properly licensed.

Broker Verification Remains Essential

The latest blocking order highlights the importance of checking a brokers regulatory status before opening an account or transferring funds.

A website, client area, trading terminal, or company name alone does not prove that a platform is authorized. Investors should be cautious of firms that promise easy profits, pressure users to deposit quickly, or operate through unclear company structures.

In the forex market, where platforms often operate across multiple jurisdictions, regulatory verification remains a basic step in reducing risk.

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