My unregulated broker, FXChoice, says I need to pay a 'risk management fee' to withdraw profits. Is this legit?

asked 30d ago12 views108 answers
0

Hi everyone, I'm feeling so sick to my stomach right now. I've been trading with a platform called FXChoice for about six months. I started with a small amount, maybe €500, and they assigned me an account manager who seemed really helpful. He kept pushing me to invest more, showing me 'guaranteed returns' and how quickly my money was growing. I saw my balance go up to almost €8,000, which felt amazing.

Now, I've tried to withdraw some of it, like €2,000, to pay off some bills. But suddenly, the account manager is saying I need to pay a 'risk management fee' of 15% of my balance to 'secure the withdrawal' because it's such a large amount. He said it's standard procedure for international transfers and that it's fully refundable once the withdrawal clears. He even sent me an official-looking document, but it just feels so wrong. I'm scared I'm losing everything. Has anyone encountered this with FXChoice or any other broker? What should I do?

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FXChoice· scam

108 Answers

45

Ugh, Sophie, I'm so sorry you're going through this. This sounds exactly like a classic scam. FXChoice is known to be an unregulated broker, and the FCA in the UK has issued warnings about them. This 'risk management fee' is just another made-up charge to squeeze more money out of you. They'll keep coming up with new fees until you either run out of money or realize what's happening and stop paying. Legit brokers do not ask for *additional* fees to release your *own money* that are a percentage of your balance, especially not something called a 'risk management fee' that's supposedly refundable. The refund will never materialize. The actual funds you see on their platform are likely fake, just numbers on a screen to entice you. Your best bet is to stop all communication and definitely don't send them any more money. Report them to your national financial regulator (BaFin in Germany) and also consider reporting to international bodies like the CFTC if they claim any US connections, though it's a long shot. Gather all your communication records and transaction details. It's tough, but that money is likely gone.

Jonathan Chua · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 30d ago
41

Sophie, I'm truly sorry this is happening to you. It's absolutely heartbreaking to feel like you've been taken advantage of. Please, listen to what everyone else is saying: do not send them any more money. This 'risk management fee' is a scam. It's designed to make you pay more, hoping you'll recover the larger, imaginary sum. Focus on your well-being right now. It's not your fault; these scammers are incredibly sophisticated and prey on people's hopes. Collect all the evidence you have – screenshots, chat logs, transaction IDs – and report it to BaFin. While getting your money back is often very difficult, reporting is crucial to help prevent others from falling victim. Stay strong.

Lucas Jansen · Almere, Netherlandsanswered 30d ago
32

Oh man, Sophie, that hit home. I went through something similar, not with FXChoice, but another shady platform that promised insane returns. My 'account manager' was so convincing, kept saying I was a natural. Then BAM, withdrawal time, and suddenly I needed to pay a 'tax certificate fee' because my 'profits' pushed me into a new bracket. Like, what?! It was about 10% of my supposed balance. Luckily, my bank (AIB here in Ireland) flagged the *outgoing* transaction when I tried to send more money and asked me a bunch of questions. That made me pause. I didn't send it. The money I'd already put in? Gone. But I didn't lose more. So, trust your gut feeling. If it feels wrong, it probably is. Don't send another cent. Seriously.

Cian Doyle · Cork, Irelandanswered 30d ago
28

This is a huge red flag, Sophie. Any legitimate broker, regulated by bodies like MAS (here in Singapore) or the FCA, will *never* ask you to pay an upfront 'fee' to process a withdrawal of *your own money*. The fees they charge are usually clearly stated in their terms and conditions, like spread or commission, and they are deducted directly from your trading account. A 'risk management fee' that's 15% of your balance and supposedly refundable? That's a classic scam tactic. They create fake urgency and fear, hoping you'll pay up to 'recover' your larger sum. Please do not send them any more money. That money is already lost, and sending more will only mean more losses for you. Cut off contact immediately.

Aaron Ng · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 30d ago
21

Right, so a 'risk management fee'. Interesting. They always come up with new names for these things, don't they? Last month it was 'liquidity provision fees', the month before 'regulatory compliance bonds'. It's all the same playbook. They show you big numbers, make you think you're rich, then invent a hurdle for withdrawal that requires *you* to send *them* more money. It's a psychological trick, tbh. You see the big number and think, 'it's only 15% to get 100%', but that 100% isn't real. It's pixels on a screen. The 15% you send *is* real money, and it goes straight into their pockets. Don't fall for it, mate. No legitimate financial institution operates like that. At all.

Charlie Davies · Leeds, United Kingdomanswered 30d ago
19

I really wish I had seen a post like this before it happened to me. I got caught by a similar thing, but with OptionStarsGlobal. They had me thinking I made like $12,000, and then BAM – 'tax processing fee' and then a 'security verification charge'. My account manager, 'Michael,' was so smooth. I paid about R15,000 in total (South African Rand) trying to get my 'profits' out, sending it through some crypto exchange he told me to use. Each time, he promised it would be the last one. It never was. Eventually, I realized it was all gone. My family was so disappointed, and I felt like such an idiot. Please, please don't send them another cent. That money is gone, but save yourself from losing even more.

Daniel Dlamini · Durban, South Africaanswered 30d ago
25

Sophie, I'm gonna be blunt: this is 100% a scam. It's the oldest trick in the book for these unregulated brokers. They entice you with fake profits, and once you try to withdraw, they hit you with various made-up fees. 'Risk management fee' is just a fancy term for 'send us more money so we can steal that too.' FXChoice has a reputation for this kind of behavior, they're not licensed or regulated by any serious financial authority that protects retail investors like you. No amount of fees you pay will ever get your money back. The 'official-looking document' is fake, just like their promises. Your best course of action is to cut all ties, block them, and report them to BaFin. And tell everyone you know about this scam tactic.

Sophia Tremblay · Montreal, Canadaanswered 30d ago
17

Ugh, this reminds me of my experience with a fake crypto platform, not exactly a forex broker, but the tactics were identical. They showed me these huge gains, like 200% return in a few weeks, which in hindsight was so obviously fake, but I was so excited. When I went to withdraw, they demanded a 'liquidity provider fee' amounting to 10% of my 'balance'. I paid it, thinking it was just one hurdle. Then they asked for a 'transaction insurance fee'. That's when my partner, bless her heart, smelled a rat and told me to stop. I lost about AUD 4,000 in total. It's a hard lesson, but please, do not pay them anything more. Those funds on their platform are not real money you can access.

Grace Harris · Canberra, Australiaanswered 30d ago
14

Yeah, Sophie, sounds like a textbook advance fee scam. The 'risk management fee' is total BS. I've never heard of a legitimate broker asking for such a thing to release funds. Think about it: why would *you* pay a fee for *them* to manage *their* risk on *your* withdrawal? It makes no sense. The only risk they're managing is the risk of you figuring out it's a scam before you send them more cash. Don't be surprised if after paying this, they invent another one, like a 'currency conversion fee' or a 'government levy' or some nonsense. It's a well-worn path. Cut your losses, sorry to say. The 'profits' are just bait.

Daniel Murphy · Cork, Irelandanswered 30d ago
38

Okay, Sophie, I want to add some actionable advice here, picking up on what Jonathan said earlier. First, confirm FXChoice's regulatory status. A quick check usually reveals warnings from reputable bodies. The FCA, for example, lists FXChoice as an unregulated entity that poses a risk to UK consumers. BaFin in Germany would likely have a similar stance or a warning. Secondly, when dealing with any financial service, always, *always* check their regulatory body *before* investing. For Germany, that's BaFin. For the Netherlands, where I am, it's the AFM. These bodies maintain public registers of licensed firms. If a firm isn't on there, or if a firm claiming to be regulated by, say, the CFTC (a US regulator), only has a tiny offshore entity, it's a massive red flag.

Thirdly, regarding this 'risk management fee' – it's a fabricated charge. No legitimate broker operates like this. Fees are transparent, pre-agreed, and usually deducted from your account. The moment they demand *you* send *them* money to unlock *your* money, it's a scam. Your €8,000 balance is likely just numbers on their screen. The money you sent them initially is gone. Do not pay this fee. Report them to BaFin immediately, providing all correspondence and transaction details. They won't recover your funds directly, but they can issue warnings and investigate. Also, if you used a credit card, initiate a chargeback with your bank if it's within the permissible timeframe.

Hannah Kruger · Bloemfontein, South Africaanswered 30d ago
15

Oh dear, this is a classic scam pattern, and sadly, FXChoice is a known entity in this space. The 'risk management fee' for withdrawals is a massive red flag. Legitimate brokers don't ask for additional fees like this to release your own funds. It's a tactic to get more money out of you before they disappear. I'd strongly advise you NOT to pay anything further. Report this to your local financial regulator if you can. In Germany, that would be BaFin, but check who oversees FXChoice's *registration* (if they even have one in your jurisdiction). Also, consider reporting to IC3.gov in the US, as many of these operations have US ties.

Michael Schafer · Dresden, Germanyanswered 30d ago
12

Man, I feel this. I got caught by something similar a couple years back. Totaled about €5k. They wanted a 'tax clearance fee' or some such nonsense. My 'account manager' vanished when I pushed back. They even had fake testimonials on their site! So gutting. Look, the best thing you can do is stop engaging. Don't send them another cent. Check if your bank offers chargeback options, but tbh, if it was a wire transfer, you're likely screwed. Lesson learned the hard way, I guess. Report it, but don't expect your money back. Maybe look into crypto scams next, lol... jk, don't.

Ryan Davis · Boston, USAanswered 30d ago
10

A 'risk management fee' to *withdraw* profits? That doesn't make sense. Why would they need *your* money to manage *their* risk? It's usually the other way around. And it being refundable? That's just to get you to pay it. If they were legit, they'd just deduct any applicable taxes or fees *from* the withdrawal itself. I’d be extremely wary. Have you checked if FXChoice is even regulated by any reputable authority like the FCA or ASIC?

Alice Bernard · Lyon, Franceanswered 30d ago
11

This is exactly what happened to me. They promised me huge returns on Bitcoin. My account manager, 'David', was so convincing. When I wanted to take out €1000, he said I needed to pay a 'withdrawal processing fee' of €200 first. Then another 'anti-money laundering check' for €500. It never ends. I ended up losing almost all the money I put in. FXChoice sounds like it's the same type of scam. Please, please don't send them more money. They are not legitimate.

Noor Al Nahyan · Sharjah, UAEanswered 30d ago
14

This scenario is highly indicative of a 'withdrawal scam,' a common tactic used by unregulated or outright fraudulent brokers. FXChoice has been flagged repeatedly for these types of practices. The 'fee' is not refundable; it's simply a method to extract more funds before the scammer absconds. Always verify a broker's regulatory status with the relevant financial authority in your jurisdiction *before* depositing funds. For instance, if you were in Australia, you'd check ASIC. If they aren't licensed, it's a major red flag.

Joshua du Plessis · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 30d ago
13

Echoing what others are saying – this 'fee' is almost certainly fake. I've seen this play out many times in my role. They create this illusion of profit, get you excited, and then hit you with a bogus fee to 'release' your funds. It's a psychological trick. The 'official-looking document' is easily faked. The key is that they are *unregulated*. If they were regulated by, say, the FCA in the UK or MAS in Singapore, they'd have strict rules about fund withdrawals and fees. The fact they can just invent a fee is telling.

Sarah Nel · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 30d ago
10

Ugh, this is the worst feeling. I was in a similar situation with a crypto platform last year. They said I owed an 'international transfer tax' of 20% before I could get my €3k out. It sounded plausible at first, right? My husband told me it felt off, but I was so stressed about the bills. I ended up paying it. Then they asked for another fee for 'compliance.' Lost everything. Don't pay. Seriously. Report them to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. It’s a long shot, but it’s something.

Emma Cote · Ottawa, Canadaanswered 30d ago
12

This smells strongly of a scam. FXChoice is not a regulated entity that I recognise, and the tactic of demanding an upfront 'fee' to release profits is a textbook move by fraudulent operations. Regulated brokers, like those licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), operate under strict guidelines. They wouldn't suddenly invent a 'risk management fee.' If you've deposited via credit card, you might have some recourse through your bank, but wire transfers are much harder to recover. File a report with MAS if they claim any Singaporean connection, or your local regulator.

Ming Goh · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 30d ago
9

I was duped by a similar broker called EuroFX a few years ago. They also promised insane returns and then hit me with a 'withdrawal tax'. 'It's standard procedure,' they said. Lies! I paid them €1,500 extra, and then they just shut down my account. Never heard from them again. I felt so stupid and ashamed. It took me ages to even talk about it. Please, please don't pay FXChoice anything else. It’s gone.

Mei Teo · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 30d ago
14

This is a well-documented scam method. The broker operates offshore, likely unlicensed, and lures victims with fabricated profits. The 'risk management fee' is arbitrary and designed solely to extract more money. The 'official document' is likely a forgery. Your best recourse is to stop all communication, do not send more funds, and report the incident to your national financial conduct authority (e.g., the FCA in the UK). Also, consider reporting it to the CFTC in the US, as these operations often have tentacles reaching there.

Oliver Harris · Liverpool, United Kingdomanswered 30d ago
13

Agreed with the consensus here. This is a scam. FXChoice is notorious for this. The entire premise of a 'risk management fee' required *from the client* to *release* profits is illogical. Their risk is their problem, not yours, and certainly not one you pay to unlock your own money. Check if your initial deposit was made via credit card. If so, contact your bank immediately and initiate a chargeback. Explain it was a fraudulent transaction with an unregulated entity. It's your best bet for recouping anything.

Lukas Wolf · Munich, Germanyanswered 30d ago
11

Wait — 'refundable'? That's just their hook to get you to pay. They *never* refund it. And why would a broker need *you* to pay a fee for *their* risk management? It makes no sense. They are essentially asking you to pay them to take your money. If they were legitimate, they'd be regulated by someone like the AFM in the Netherlands, and there would be clear procedures, not arbitrary fees popping up. Be very careful.

Louise Robert · Paris, Franceanswered 30d ago
9

Oh no, that sounds awful! I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's completely understandable you're worried. It's definitely a very suspicious request. Don't send them any more money. Maybe check with your bank about reversing the initial deposit if it was recent, but I know that's often difficult. For reporting, I'd suggest looking up the financial regulator for where FXChoice claims to be based or licensed. Even if they're fake, it's worth a try.

Levi Jansen · Utrecht, Netherlandsanswered 30d ago
15

This is a textbook advance-fee fraud. FXChoice is known for this. The 'account manager' is part of the scam, designed to build trust and encourage larger deposits. The 'risk management fee' is a fabricated charge to extract more money. They prey on the victim's hope and desperation. The best advice is to cease all contact and payment. Report them to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) if they have any Australian ties, and also to Scamwatch. Do not pay further.

Grace Thompson · Gold Coast, Australiaanswered 30d ago
11

I know this feeling. It's like a punch to the gut. I lost about $2000 to a similar operation. They kept saying 'just one more fee' and I kept paying. Eventually, they just disappeared. It's a horrible lesson. FXChoice is known to be a scam. Don't send them any more money. I'd also check with my bank about chargebacks, but honestly, with these types of scams, it's very hard to get money back. I wish you the best.

Aoife Murphy · Limerick, Irelandanswered 30d ago
8

This is incredibly stressful, and I'm really sorry you're in this situation. It sounds like they are trying to scam you. The fee sounds completely made up. Have you tried looking up reviews of FXChoice specifically for withdrawal issues? Sometimes other people's experiences can be a warning. Whatever you do, don't pay them any more money. Maybe check if your bank offers any fraud protection services.

Henry Jones · Adelaide, Australiaanswered 30d ago
13

This happened to me! They called it a 'liquidity adjustment fee'. Same story, 'refundable', showed me a fancy PDF. I paid it. Then they wanted a 'compliance verification fee'. I never saw my money again. FXChoice is a scam. Please, please don't pay them another dime. They operate on pure manipulation. Report them to your country's financial regulator, but don't expect much.

Sara Al Mansoori · Ajman, UAEanswered 30d ago
12

I am so sorry this is happening to you. This is a terrible situation. These unregulated brokers are unfortunately quite common, and FXChoice is one that has been mentioned before in scam contexts. The 'risk management fee' is a classic scam tactic. They invent these fees to keep you paying. Please do not send them any more money. You could try reporting them to the relevant authorities, like the CFTC in the US, but recovering funds from such operations is exceedingly difficult.

Brandon Martinez · Boston, USAanswered 30d ago
14

Oh wow, that sounds like a nightmare. FXChoice is a known scam platform. That 'risk management fee' is complete BS. They just want to milk you for more money before they disappear. Don't pay it. If you paid by credit card, try a chargeback immediately. If it was a bank transfer, you're unfortunately likely out of luck. Report them to the FCA or whichever regulator seems closest, but honestly, the chances of getting your money back are slim to none.

James Byrne · Waterford, Irelandanswered 30d ago
16

This is a harsh reality check, but you've likely been scammed. FXChoice is a known unregulated scam operation. The fabricated profits, the assigned 'account manager,' and the invented 'withdrawal fee' are all classic elements. They prey on people's desire for quick money. The best course of action now is to cut your losses, do not send them any more money, and report them to your local financial intelligence unit or securities commission. I wish I had better news, but recovering funds from these types of scams is very rare.

Joshua Mokoena · Pretoria, South Africaanswered 30d ago
12

This is a classic sign of a scam, unfortunately. FXChoice is not regulated by any major financial authority, and this 'risk management fee' is a common tactic used by fraudulent brokers to extract more money before disappearing. They prey on the excitement of perceived profits. The 'official-looking document' is likely fabricated. Do NOT send them any more money. Report this to your local financial regulator and consider filing a complaint with IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) in the US, as they often track these international scams.

Ahmed Iqbal · Al Ain, UAEanswered 30d ago
10

Oh god, I know that feeling. The gut-wrenching dread. They got me for about €5k that way a few years back. Different broker, but the story was identical: 'fees' to release 'profits'. Mine was a 'tax verification fee'. They'll keep inventing reasons. Don't send them another cent. The money you've 'made' is gone, and anything else you send will be too. It's a harsh lesson, but you're not alone in this. I finally reported mine to the FCA here in the UK, but tbh, I never saw a penny back.

Logan Morin · Vancouver, Canadaanswered 30d ago
9

Red flag, red flag, red flag. Seriously, if it sounds too good to be true, it almost always is. This 'risk management fee' is a textbook advance-fee scam. These unregulated brokers operate outside the law to trick people. FXChoice is known for this. Once they ask for more money to release your own funds, it's game over. You should stop all communication with them immediately. Never pay this fee. You can try reporting it to the MAS in Singapore if you're a resident, but recovery chances are slim once funds are sent to these operations.

Jonathan Chan · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 30d ago
8

My heart sank reading this. I was in a similar situation with a binary options scam a few years ago. They promised the moon, then hit me with a 'withdrawal fee' after I'd put in £3k. Said it was a 'regulatory compliance charge'. My husband told me it sounded fishy from the start. I lost most of it, but managed to claw back some by disputing the original card payments via my bank. It's worth a shot, though it's a long shot. Good luck, I really hope you don't lose everything.

Rachel Taylor · Cardiff, United Kingdomanswered 30d ago
7

Wait — 'risk management fee'? That sounds completely made up. Legitimate brokers don't ask for extra fees to release profits. They might have withdrawal charges, sure, but that's usually a small percentage or fixed fee disclosed upfront, not a 'management fee' on perceived gains. FXChoice, from what I've heard on forums like this, is one of those offshore, unregulated outfits. I'd be very surprised if that €8,000 is real. Be extremely cautious about sending them any more money.

Daan van den Berg · Amsterdam, Netherlandsanswered 30d ago
6

I'm so sorry you're going through this. This is exactly what happened to me. I invested €2,000 with a platform called EuroFX, which I now know is a scam. They also assigned me an account manager. He showed me fake trading results, and when I wanted to withdraw my €6,500, they asked for a 'processing fee' of 20%. I paid it, thinking it was the only way. Then they asked for another 'tax fee'. I lost everything. Please, please don't send them any more money.

Julia Bos · Groningen, Netherlandsanswered 30d ago
5

This is heartbreaking to read. It sounds like a scam. They're using tactics designed to make you pay more. I was almost lured into something similar last year. They said I had 'unrealized gains' and needed to pay a 'clearing fee' to access them. Thankfully, my brother-in-law, who works in finance, told me it was BS. He said real brokers don't operate like this. Always check if a broker is regulated by a reputable authority like the FCA or ASIC. This FXChoice sounds dodgy.

Aisha Al Suwaidi · Ajman, UAEanswered 30d ago
5

Ugh, the 'account manager' push is a huge red flag. They're incentivized to get you to deposit, not to manage your risk. And these random fees? Never heard of anything like it from a legit place. My cousin got burned by a crypto scam, and they pulled the same stunt with a 'withdrawal tax'. He ended up paying them an extra R10,000. It was all gone. FXChoice sounds like they're in the same racket. Don't pay them a cent more. Try reporting it to the South African Reserve Bank, though I doubt they can help much with offshore entities.

Emma Smit · Durban, South Africaanswered 29d ago
4

This is a very common scam. They make you feel like you're winning, then hit you with an impossible fee to get your money out. I went through something similar, lost £1,500. The broker, OptionStarsGlobal, kept inventing 'administrative fees' and 'legal charges'. They even sent fake court documents. It felt like I was being squeezed dry. I eventually reported them to the FCA, but my money was long gone. My advice? Cut your losses and don't send them any more money. You've likely lost what you've already put in.

Hannah Evans · London, United Kingdomanswered 29d ago
4

Oh no, that sounds incredibly stressful. I can only imagine how you must be feeling. It's so disheartening when you think you're making progress and then something like this happens. Don't beat yourself up about it; these scammers are very good at what they do. It sounds like the 'risk management fee' is just a made-up charge to get more money from you. Maybe try checking if FXChoice is listed on any reputable financial directories or if they have an official registration number with a regulatory body like BaFin in Germany? That might give you some clarity.

Emma Schneider · Berlin, Germanyanswered 29d ago
3

This is tough, but thank you for sharing. It's important for others to know about these scams. My uncle nearly fell for this with a forex broker here in SA. They promised him 10% returns monthly. When he wanted to withdraw his initial R20,000, they demanded a 'capital gains tax' payment. He refused, and they froze his account. He lost it all. He eventually reported it to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) here, but they couldn't recover the funds from the offshore entity. Learn from this and never pay these extra fees.

Thabo Nel · Durban, South Africaanswered 29d ago
3

Stop immediately. That 'risk management fee' is a fabrication. FXChoice is not a regulated entity, and this is a classic advance-fee fraud. They create a fictional profit to lure you in, then invent fees to drain your account. Never, ever pay this. The money is already gone, and any further payment will just add to your loss. Report them to the relevant authorities in your country, and also to Europol if you're in the EU. These scams often operate across borders.

Leo Robert · Toulouse, Franceanswered 29d ago
3

This is exactly the kind of scam I warn my friends about. Unregulated brokers like FXChoice are dangerous. They create fake profits to entice you, then invent fees like this 'risk management fee' to steal your money. They might even send you fake documents to make it look legitimate. It's a common trick. You should not pay this fee. Try to report them to the AFM (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets) if you are in the Netherlands, and maybe your local police's fraud department.

Emma de Vries · Tilburg, Netherlandsanswered 29d ago
3

Oh no, I'm so sorry. This sounds exactly like what happened to my friend last year. She invested €1,000 with a similar platform, and when she wanted to withdraw €3,000, they asked for a 'validation fee'. She paid it, and then they asked for a 'transfer fee'. She ended up paying them an extra €1,500, and then they just disappeared. She lost everything. Please don't send FXChoice any more money. They are scammers.

Alice Leroy · Lille, Franceanswered 29d ago
2

I am so sorry this is happening to you. I was in a similar situation last year with a broker, and they demanded a 'government tax' before releasing my 'profits'. I paid €500, and then they asked for another €1,000 for 'international transfer fees'. I was so upset and scared. I stopped communicating with them and reported them to my bank, but it didn't help. Please don't send them any more money. They are just trying to get as much as possible from you.

Emma Meijer · Almere, Netherlandsanswered 29d ago
2

This sounds exactly like the scam my brother-in-law fell for. He lost thousands. They asked for a 'software upgrade fee' to release his 'profits'. He paid it. Then they wanted a 'legalisation fee'. He kept paying until he had nothing left. FXChoice is likely unregulated, which means there's no oversight. Never pay these fees. Your best bet is to report it to your country's financial regulator, but honestly, getting the money back is extremely unlikely. For future reference, only use brokers regulated by the FCA, ASIC, CFTC etc.

Isabella Bouchard · Vancouver, Canadaanswered 29d ago
2

Yeah, this is a scam 100%. The 'account manager' is just a salesperson designed to hook you. And that 'risk management fee' is pure fiction. They'll invent endless fees until you stop paying or they disappear. I've seen this happen so many times on these forums. FXChoice is not regulated. Never send them more money. Try reporting them to your national financial authority, but don't expect miracles. It's a harsh lesson, but you've likely lost the money you put in.

Henry Davies · Manchester, United Kingdomanswered 29d ago
2

Oh wow, I've heard stories like this before. It's horrible. They make you see fake profits, then when you want to take some money out, they invent fees. It's a well-known scam. My neighbour almost fell for it, but I warned her. She was going to pay a 'holding fee' to withdraw her 'winnings'. Thankfully she listened. FXChoice is likely a scam outfit. Don't pay them anything. Report them to the MAS if you can, or any financial regulator you know of.

Grace Ndlovu · East London, South Africaanswered 29d ago
1

I'm really sorry you're in this situation. It sounds like a classic advance-fee scam. The 'risk management fee' is just a way to get more money out of you. They create a fake balance and then invent reasons why you can't withdraw it. It's devastating, I know. My friend lost about €3,000 to a similar broker. They kept asking for 'processing fees'. Don't send them any more money. You can try reporting FXChoice to the French financial regulator, the AMF, but recovery is very unlikely.

Jules Laurent · Paris, Franceanswered 29d ago
1

This is awful, but thank you for sharing your experience. It's a vital warning for others. That 'risk management fee' is a total scam. They'll just keep asking for more. My sister lost money to a scam broker called 'Global Invest FX' which is now defunct. They also demanded fees to withdraw 'profits'. She reported it to the FCA, but nothing came of it. You should report FXChoice to your local police's fraud unit and also to any financial regulator you can find. Don't send them more money.

Chloe Durand · Strasbourg, Franceanswered 29d ago
7

Oh wow, this is a classic. That 'risk management fee' is a giant red flag. FXChoice is actually on a few scam warning lists that I've seen, tbh. They aren't regulated by any reputable body like the MAS or FCA, which is a huge problem. The only legitimate fees you'd typically encounter are broker commissions or withdrawal processing fees, but never a percentage of your balance as a 'risk management' thing. This sounds like they just want more money before you realize it's gone. Don't send them another cent. Report them to your local financial regulator and potentially the CFTC if you think there's any international link, though their jurisdiction is limited.

Lucas de Jong · Groningen, Netherlandsanswered 29d ago
5

Been there, mate. Had something similar happen with a company called EuroFX a few years back. Started small, then they 'suggested' bigger deposits. When I wanted cash out, suddenly there was a 'tax' and then a 'transfer fee'. Ended up losing more trying to 'get my money back' than I ever 'made'. FXChoice? Never heard of them, but sounds like the same old song and dance. They'll keep inventing fees until you give up or run out of cash. My advice? Cut your losses and move on. If you sent them money, maybe try reporting it to the ASIC, but ngl, chances are slim of seeing that €8k again. Sucks hard.

Liam Smit · Cape Town, South Africaanswered 29d ago
5

Please, please be careful. What you're describing is a very common scam tactic. They let you see your balance grow to make you feel good, then invent a fee to keep your money. FXChoice is not a regulated broker. If they were legitimate, they wouldn't need to ask for extra money like this. They already have your money. The 'official-looking document' is likely fake. Report this immediately to the AFM in the Netherlands, as you're in the EU. Do *not* pay any more fees. They will just ask for more.

Sophie de Groot · Utrecht, Netherlandsanswered 29d ago
4

Hmm, 'risk management fee'? That's a new one on me. Usually, if a broker is legit and regulated (like by the FCA or ASIC), they're upfront about all costs. The fact that this popped up *only* when you tried to withdraw is super suspicious. And a percentage of your balance? Weird. Most fees are flat rates or based on transaction volume, not just a arbitrary percentage on profits. I'd be very hesitant to send them any more money, even if they say it's refundable. What if it's just another way to get more out of you?

Emma Pelletier · Victoria, Canadaanswered 29d ago
4

Yeah, that sounds really dodgy. I've seen similar stories online, though not specifically about FXChoice. My friend tried withdrawing profits from an unregulated platform, and they also invented a 'tax' or 'fee' out of nowhere. The whole 'account manager' pushing for more money is also a typical scam setup. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. I’d be very wary of paying that fee.

Jia Koh · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 29d ago
3

Totally get why you're sick. That 'risk management fee' is absolute nonsense. A real broker, regulated by the FCA for example, wouldn't pull that. They'd have clear terms and conditions about withdrawals. This sounds like a classic pump-and-dump or outright theft. Don't pay it. Seriously, just don't. You might want to check if FXChoice is even registered with any financial authority, though I suspect they won't be. It's probably gone.

Sophie Davies · Nottingham, United Kingdomanswered 29d ago
5

This is a textbook advance-fee scam. FXChoice is not a regulated entity, and the 'risk management fee' is a fabrication designed to extract more money from you. Legitimate brokers don't operate this way. They will continuously invent new fees – 'taxes', 'transfer fees', 'compliance costs' – until you either give up or deplete your funds. Do not send them any further money. Your best course of action, though likely to yield little, is to report them to the relevant financial supervisory authority in your country. If you deposited via credit card, dispute the charge with your bank immediately.

Naledi Smit · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 29d ago
6

I fell for this once. With OptionStarsGlobal. They said I owed a 'withdrawal fee' of 10% to get my €3,000 out. I paid it. Then they said there was a 'government tax' I needed to pay, another €1,500. I was so desperate for my money, I scraped it together. Never saw a penny. They just ghosted me. FXChoice sounds exactly the same. Please don't send them more money. I lost €4,500. You'll likely never get that €8,000 back.

Wei Chua · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 29d ago
5

This is heartbreaking. I had a similar experience about a year ago with a company that's now defunct, but they used the same tactics. They promised the moon, then hit me with a 'compliance fee' when I tried to withdraw my small profits. I paid it, and then they vanished. FXChoice sounds like they’re doing the same thing. That 'account manager' is part of the scam. They want you to trust them so you'll keep paying. I’m so sorry, but I really don't think you’ll get your money back.

Anna de Jong · Eindhoven, Netherlandsanswered 29d ago
4

Yeah, that 'risk management fee' sounds completely made up. If FXChoice were legit, they'd be regulated, and the fees would be in their terms and conditions, not something they invent on the fly when you want to cash out. I'd be extremely suspicious. Did you verify their regulatory status yourself, or just take their word for it? Most scam brokers aren't registered anywhere. I would NOT pay that fee. It's a trap. You might be looking at losing the entire amount, unfortunately.

Charlie Johnson · Perth, Australiaanswered 29d ago
4

This is exactly how OptionStarsGlobal operated. My cousin lost thousands to them. They promise big returns, assign you a 'manager', and then when you try to withdraw, it's always a fee. Always. They'll say it's for this or that – taxes, security, risk. It's all fake. FXChoice sounds like the same scam. Don't pay anything else. You probably won't get your money back, but at least don't give them more.

Mei Ong · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 29d ago
3

Ugh, this is awful. The whole 'account manager' pushing for more money and then suddenly a 'fee' is a huge red flag. I've seen this pattern before with scams. FXChoice is likely unregulated, which means there's no one to hold them accountable. Don't pay the fee. They'll just invent another one. I'm really sorry, this sounds like a terrible situation.

Megan Gonzalez · New York, USAanswered 29d ago
4

That sounds like a total scam, unfortunately. I've heard similar stories. If a broker is regulated (like by the FCA or CFTC), they have strict rules about how they can ask for money. A surprise 'risk management fee' that's a percentage of your balance is highly irregular. They are likely just trying to get more money from you before you realize you've been defrauded. I would strongly advise against paying it.

Mohammed Al Mansoori · Sharjah, UAEanswered 29d ago
4

This is a classic 'advance fee' scam. FXChoice is likely unregulated and the 'risk management fee' is a fabrication to get more money from you. They prey on people's excitement about profits. Once you pay this fee, they will invent another one. Do not pay them anything further. Report FXChoice to your local financial regulator and potentially the MAS if they claim to operate there. You'll likely never see that €8,000 again, unfortunately. I wish you the best.

Sarah Brown · Seattle, USAanswered 29d ago
4

Definitely a scam. FXChoice is notorious for this. That 'risk management fee' is a lie. They're not regulated by any serious body. The account manager is part of it. He's probably getting a commission for every dollar you deposit. They want to keep you depositing and then hit you with fake fees to steal your money. Report them to the FCA if you can, though they might not have jurisdiction if FXChoice isn't based there. Don't pay.

William Taylor · Darwin, Australiaanswered 29d ago
4

This is a very common scam pattern. FXChoice is not a regulated broker, and the 'risk management fee' is a fabricated charge designed to extract more money from you. Legitimate brokers have transparent fee structures clearly outlined in their terms and conditions. They will continue to invent new fees if you pay this one. Your best bet is to report this to your country's financial regulator and the AFM. Unfortunately, recovery is unlikely.

Niamh Doyle · Cork, Irelandanswered 29d ago
3

Mate, that sounds exactly like what happened to my mate Dave. He used a platform that promised the world, then tried to charge him a 'processing fee' on withdrawal. Turned out the platform was a total scam. FXChoice? Yeah, I'd be extremely careful. That fee sounds made up. Just cut your losses now before they ask for more.

Liam Morin · Halifax, Canadaanswered 29d ago
4

Oh dear, I am so sorry to hear this. It sounds exactly like the kind of thing that happened to my sister's friend with a similar company. They invented all sorts of fees to stop her from withdrawing her money. FXChoice is not regulated, so they can do whatever they want. Please don't pay that fee. It's a trap. You might want to try reporting them to the AFM, but honestly, it sounds like your money is gone.

Louise Leroy · Montpellier, Franceanswered 29d ago
4

This is a classic advance-fee scam, and FXChoice is known for these tactics. The 'risk management fee' is entirely fabricated. They are likely not regulated by any reputable financial authority. The 'account manager' is part of the scheme to build your trust before they ask for more money. Do not send them any further funds. Report them to your local financial regulator. I sincerely hope you can recover some of it, but it's unlikely.

Ahmed Ahmed · Ras Al Khaimah, UAEanswered 29d ago
5

This sounds extremely familiar to a common scam pattern. FXChoice is known in regulatory circles for operating without proper authorization in many jurisdictions. They are likely not regulated by MAS or FCA. That 'risk management fee' is a classic red flag. They want to squeeze more money out of you before you realize it's gone. Do NOT send them any more money. The document they sent is probably fake.

My advice? Try to report them to your local financial regulator if they are licensed in your country. In the US, that would be the CFTC, but since you're in Europe, check with your national authority. Look up the official website for your country's financial regulator (e.g., AFM in Netherlands, BaFin in Germany). DO NOT use links they provide.

Michael Thomas · Austin, USAanswered 29d ago
3

Oh god, i know this pain. They did the exact same thing to me, but with OptionStarsGlobal. Said i had to pay a 'tax' before they could release my €5k profit. I paid it. Then they asked for a 'transfer fee'. Paid that too. By the time they asked for a 'legalisation fee' i had nothing left and they vanished. I think they blocked my number. It was about €9k in total i lost.

Don't send them a cent more. They will just invent new fees. I learned the hard way. The only thing you can do is report it. I reported to my local police but they said it's too complex with international transfers. So frustrating.

Jules Robert · Strasbourg, Franceanswered 29d ago
4

This is a classic advance-fee scam. FXChoice is a known entity in this space, and sadly, not in a good way. They operate in a grey area, often targeting people who are new to trading. That 'risk management fee' is completely made up to get you to send them more money. They will keep asking for more fees, or claim there was a 'technical issue' with the transfer, until you either give up or run out of funds.

Important Tip: Always check the regulatory status of any broker *before* depositing funds. Look them up on the official website of your country's financial regulator. For instance, here in Australia, ASIC would be the body. If they aren't listed or have a warning against them, walk away. Don't trust unsolicited contact or promises of guaranteed high returns. Report FXChoice to your local financial authority immediately. Every report helps build a case against them.

Jack Jones · Adelaide, Australiaanswered 29d ago
2

A 'risk management fee' for withdrawal? That just sounds like nonsense to me. If the profits are legit, why would they need you to pay a fee to *them* to process your own money? That fee is for *their* risk, not yours. Usually, fees related to withdrawals are paid to the bank or payment processor, not the broker itself.

And 'fully refundable' sounds like a way to get you to pay now and then never see it again. I'd be very suspicious. Did you check if FXChoice is regulated by any reputable body like the AFM or FCA?

Raphael Michel · Lille, Franceanswered 29d ago
3

Hang in there. I was in a similar situation with a different broker that preyed on me after my divorce. They promised the moon, and when I needed cash, suddenly it was 'regulatory fees' and 'conversion charges'. I ended up paying them almost €3,000 extra. My ex-husband, who is surprisingly good with this stuff, told me it was a scam from the start. He said these unregulated places invent fees. I was so embarrassed to admit how much I'd lost.

Don't send the money. You're not alone. Try to file a complaint with your country's financial watchdog. They might not recover your money, but at least they know what FXChoice is up to.

Liam Nel · Bloemfontein, South Africaanswered 29d ago
2

Ugh, this 'risk management fee' is a huge red flag. I've seen this happen to friends. They get you hooked with initial gains, then when you want your money, it's suddenly a 'fee' or 'tax' or some other made-up charge. The 'official-looking document' is likely just a PDF they made themselves to look legitimate.

If FXChoice is unregulated, they can pretty much make up any rule they want. I'd be very wary of sending them any more funds, even if they promise it's refundable. It's a classic trap. Has anyone here actually *successfully* withdrawn profits from FXChoice without these kinds of issues?

Emily Hughes · Liverpool, United Kingdomanswered 29d ago
4

I'm so sorry this is happening to you. I fell for a similar scam last year with a crypto platform called 'CoinMax Profits'. They promised huge returns and when I tried to withdraw €1500, they demanded a 'compliance fee'. I paid it, and then they wanted a 'network uplift fee'. I lost about €3000 in total before I realized it was a scam. My spouse kept telling me it sounded too good to be true.

I reported it to my bank, who suggested filing a report with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. They couldn't get my money back, but they did say it helps them track these operations. Don't send them any more money. Stop all communication.

Sophia Fortin · Vancouver, Canadaanswered 29d ago
5

This sounds exactly like the EuroFX scam that was doing the rounds a couple of years ago. They'd promise incredible returns, get you invested, then hit you with ridiculous fees to withdraw. 'Risk management fee,' 'anti-money laundering charge,' 'international transfer levy' – they had them all. It's all a ploy to get you to deposit more money, which they then pocket.

FXChoice is almost certainly not a legitimate, regulated broker if they're asking for this. Check their registration status with the FCA if you're in the UK, or the BaFin if you're in Germany. My advice is to cut your losses now and report them. Don't send another euro.

David Klein · Dusseldorf, Germanyanswered 29d ago
1

Yeah, this 'risk management fee' is a huge no. Especially if they can't point to a specific regulation that requires it from *you*. Usually, the broker handles their own risk management. If they're asking *you* to pay for it, it's likely a made-up charge.

Have you tried asking them for the specific legal basis or regulation that mandates this fee for your withdrawal? If they can't provide a clear, verifiable answer, that's another big warning sign. It's probably not legit.

Ciara Smith · Waterford, Irelandanswered 29d ago
3

I'm so sorry you're going through this. I had a very similar experience with a Forex broker that wasn't regulated. They kept telling me my withdrawals were stuck in 'regulatory review' and I needed to pay a fee to speed it up. It was always something new. First it was a deposit to cover the withdrawal amount, then a 'tax'. I ended up paying over €4,000. My sister told me to check with the Central Bank of Ireland, but it was too late by then.

Don't send them any more money. Block them if you have to. You've likely lost the money you put in, but don't let them take more.

Saoirse Smith · Cork, Irelandanswered 29d ago
4

This is textbook. They get you excited with profits, then hit you with bogus fees when you try to cash out. FXChoice is not on any reputable regulatory list I've seen. They are likely an unregulated entity, possibly operating from a jurisdiction with lax oversight. The 'risk management fee' is fabricated. They want to extract more funds before they disappear.

Actionable Advice: Do not send them any more money. Contact your national financial regulator (e.g., BaFin in Germany) and file a formal complaint. Provide them with all the communication you've had. Also, check if your payment method offers any chargeback options, though this is often difficult with international transfers or crypto.

Lukas Meyer · Berlin, Germanyanswered 29d ago
3

OMG, this happened to me! Exactly the same thing with a broker called 'Global Trade FX'. They said I needed to pay a 'validation fee' for a €3,000 withdrawal. I paid it, then they said my account was 'flagged for money laundering' and I needed to pay a 'compliance deposit' of 20% of my total balance. I was so scared. My dad told me it was a scam and to stop. I lost €2,000 on the fees and never got my original €1,000 back. It’s devastating.

Lukas Muller · Hamburg, Germanyanswered 29d ago
2

Wait — is FXChoice regulated by the AFM? Because if they aren't, then this 'risk management fee' is almost certainly a scam. Unregulated brokers often pull these stunts. They promise big returns, then invent fees to bleed you dry. The 'official-looking document' is probably just a template they downloaded.

I'd suggest checking the AFM's website directly to see if FXChoice is registered. If not, stop all communication and don't send them any more money. You might want to report them to the AFM anyway, even if they aren't licensed there, so others don't fall for it.

Saar de Groot · Breda, Netherlandsanswered 29d ago
3

I've seen this movie before. My sister, bless her heart, got tangled up with a similar outfit after her divorce. They promised her the world, got her to deposit €5,000, and then when she wanted to take out €1,000 to fix her car, they demanded a 'processing fee' and a 'currency conversion tax'. She paid about €1,500 in fees. Her husband finally convinced her it was a scam.

She eventually reported it to the MAS, which is the Monetary Authority of Singapore, because that's where the scammer claimed to be based. They couldn't get her money back, but they did put out a warning. So, definitely report it to your local regulator. Don't send more money.

Grace Pillay · Bloemfontein, South Africaanswered 29d ago
5

This is a classic scam. FXChoice is NOT a legitimate broker. They are unregulated and known for these tactics. The 'risk management fee' is completely fabricated. They will invent new fees endlessly to extract more money from you. Do NOT send them any more funds.

Red Flag: Any broker asking you to pay a fee to withdraw your *own* profits is almost certainly a scam. Legitimate brokers deduct fees from the amount withdrawn, they don't ask for upfront payments like this. Report them to the CFTC or your national financial regulator immediately. Gather all your communication evidence.

Rachel Wilson · Dallas, USAanswered 29d ago
2

It sounds like you've been targeted by a scam. The 'risk management fee' is a well-known tactic used by unregulated brokers to extract more money. They operate in a legal grey area and invent these fees as they go along. Have you checked if FXChoice is regulated by the FCA or any other major financial authority? If not, that's a huge red flag.

My advice? Stop communicating with them and do not send any more money. Report the incident to your local financial regulator. It's unlikely you'll get your money back, but reporting it helps prevent others from being victimized.

Sipho Botha · East London, South Africaanswered 29d ago
3

Yep, saw this with a friend. They used a platform called 'Apex Markets' (not sure if related) and were told they needed to pay an 'income tax' on profits before withdrawal. They paid it. Then it was a 'compliance fee'. Ended up losing about AUD $7,000. The broker just disappeared after that. It's gutting.

FXChoice is likely unregulated. Always, always check with ASIC if you're in Aus, or your country's equivalent. Don't trust anyone who cold-calls you or promises high returns. Report them everywhere you can.

Grace Williams · Brisbane, Australiaanswered 29d ago
2

Oh no, this is awful. That 'risk management fee' sounds so suspicious. If FXChoice isn't regulated by the FCA or another major authority, they can essentially make up the rules. I've heard of brokers asking for taxes, insurance fees, all sorts of things before they release funds.

What is your account manager's name? Maybe if enough people report this specific person, something can be done. Also, if you paid by credit card, you might be able to do a chargeback, but usually, these types of brokers only accept bank transfers or crypto which are harder to trace.

Charlotte Gagnon · Montreal, Canadaanswered 29d ago
3

I'm really sorry you're dealing with this. That sounds like a common scam operation. The 'risk management fee' is a classic move by unregulated brokers like FXChoice appears to be. They try to get as much money out of you as possible before they vanish. Don't send them anything else.

I'd recommend reporting them to the MAS or your local financial authority. They might not recover your funds, but it's crucial to get these operations flagged. Every bit of information helps build a case against them.

Lukas Klein · Dusseldorf, Germanyanswered 29d ago
12

This sounds exactly like the 'advance fee' scam that targets forex traders. FXChoice is known for this. They prey on people who see initial gains and then hit them with these made-up fees. The 'risk management fee,' 'withdrawal tax,' 'transfer fee' — it's all smoke and mirrors. They'll keep asking for more money, each time with a 'reason,' until you've lost it all. The documents they send are fakes. The AFM here in the Netherlands has warnings about unregulated brokers doing this.

Tess de Jong · Almere, Netherlandsanswered 29d ago
8

Oh no, I'm so sorry you're going through this. It sounds incredibly stressful. I can only imagine how that must feel after seeing your money grow. Don't blame yourself, these scams are designed to look convincing. The most important thing now is to not send them any more money. That 'fee' is almost certainly not refundable and just a way to get more cash out of you. Please try to report this to your bank and the relevant financial authorities.

Amelia Pelletier · Ottawa, Canadaanswered 29d ago
7

A 'risk management fee' to 'secure a withdrawal'? That sounds utterly ridiculous. Like, who even makes up these terms? If it were a legitimate broker, they'd deduct any applicable taxes or fees from the withdrawal itself, not ask for an upfront payment that's 'refundable'. This screams scam, especially since FXChoice is on the radar for dodgy practices. Keep your wallet shut, mate. Don't send another penny.

Harry Jones · Edinburgh, United Kingdomanswered 29d ago
15

My friend went through something SO similar with OptionStarsGlobal last year. They promised the moon, then suddenly needed a 'compliance fee' to release her €5k. It was a lie. She lost everything. The big red flag for me, looking back, was how much pressure they put on her to keep depositing. They never talked about *risks*, only *returns*. Stay strong. Do NOT pay that fee. Report them to your local financial watchdog and your bank immediately.

Grace Lim · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 29d ago
9

Yeah, this has classic scam written all over it. 'Risk management fee' that's refundable? That's a new one for the scam playbook, but it follows the same pattern: get you invested, show you fake profits, then invent a reason to charge you more money before you can withdraw. FXChoice is not a regulated entity in the US, and they're likely operating illegally. Stop all communication and do not pay them. Report it to the CFTC if you can.

Brian Hernandez · San Antonio, USAanswered 29d ago
7

Hey, I know this is tough, but you're doing the right thing by asking for help. It's completely understandable why you'd be worried after seeing that balance jump. These brokers can be very persuasive. The key here is that they are asking for *more* money upfront before you can access *your* money. That's a massive red flag. Most legitimate platforms don't operate like that. Please, please don't send them any more funds. You've likely already lost your initial deposit, but paying this 'fee' will just deepen the hole.

Daniel Anderson · Seattle, USAanswered 29d ago
6

Hang on, a 'risk management fee' specifically for withdrawing profits? That makes zero sense. If they were regulated, there'd be clear rules. But an unregulated outfit like FXChoice? It’s pure theatre to extract more cash. That account manager's script is tired; they probably use the exact same lines on everyone. Don't fall for the refund promise – it's never coming. Next time, always check if a broker is regulated by a reputable authority like the MAS.

Aaron Goh · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 29d ago
11

Oh dear, this is heartbreaking to read. I’ve seen this exact scenario play out with EuroFX, another one that lures people in with big promises. That 'risk management fee' is a classic scam tactic, designed to make you feel like there's a legitimate hurdle to overcome with your money. There isn't. They just want another chunk of cash. The fact that FXChoice is unregulated is the biggest giveaway. Report this to ASIC and your bank immediately. Don't pay.

Charlotte Johnson · Melbourne, Australiaanswered 29d ago
18

I wish I'd seen this thread months ago. I got caught by something similar, though not FXChoice specifically. They called it a 'clearing fee.' I paid €1500, thinking it was a small price for €10,000 profit. My wife told me it sounded dodgy, but I was too excited. Long story short, they vanished. My €8,500 initial deposit, plus the fee, gone. Please, for your own sake, do NOT pay this 'risk management fee'. It's a lie. Report them.

Thomas Johnson · Gold Coast, Australiaanswered 29d ago
13

LISTEN. Do NOT pay that fee. FXChoice is a known scam. They are not regulated and operate purely to defraud people. That account manager is a scammer, and the documents are fake. They will keep asking for more money – 'taxes,' 'processing fees,' whatever. The only legitimate reporting agency for this kind of fraud in the US is the CFTC. File a complaint. Also, contact your bank immediately and see if they can do a chargeback, though it's difficult with international transfers.

Jack Thompson · Newcastle, Australiaanswered 29d ago
8

This is textbook advance-fee fraud. FXChoice is an unregulated entity and is almost certainly running a Ponzi-like scheme. They inflate your account balance virtually, making you believe you're profitable. Then, when you try to withdraw, they invent fees. The 'risk management fee' is completely fabricated. Legitimate financial institutions do not operate this way. If you are in Europe, check the warning lists from the AFM and the FCA. Do not send them any more money.

Louis Bernard · Marseille, Franceanswered 29d ago
6

Oh man, I've heard whispers about FXChoice being sketchy. This whole 'risk management fee' thing sounds like a classic move from unregulated brokers trying to squeeze more cash out of you before they disappear. They make the profits look real, then invent all sorts of 'fees' for withdrawals. Never heard of a refundable withdrawal fee. That's a giant red flag. Best to cut your losses now and not pay them a cent more. Report them to your local financial regulator.

Lucas Fortin · Halifax, Canadaanswered 29d ago
10

Stop. Just stop. Do not pay that fee. This is precisely how these scams work. They give you fake profits to build trust, then hit you with a fabricated fee. FXChoice is an unregulated broker, which means there's no oversight and no protection for you if they go bust or, as is the case here, if they are actively defrauding you. The 'account manager' is part of the scam. Report them to your bank and any financial regulatory body you can find, like the FCA if you're in the UK.

Laura Neumann · Frankfurt, Germanyanswered 29d ago
7

I'm so sorry you're in this situation. It's terrifying when you think your money is safe and then this happens. This 'risk management fee' is a common scam tactic used by unregulated platforms. They create a fictional hurdle to prevent you from withdrawing your funds, hoping you’ll pay more. FXChoice being unregulated is a major warning sign. Please do not send them any more money. You can report this type of activity to organizations like IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) in the US.

Naledi Coetzee · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 29d ago
14

Reading this made my stomach drop. This sounds *exactly* like what happened to my cousin last year. She was trading with a site that promised crazy returns, and when she tried to pull out just €500, they demanded a €100 'verification fee'. It was total BS. She paid it, and then they wanted a 'tax' on the profits. She ended up losing her entire €2,000 initial investment. Don't pay them! FXChoice is unregulated and known for these tricks.

Megan Williams · Dallas, USAanswered 29d ago
9

This sounds like a very common unregulated broker scam. The 'risk management fee' is a made-up charge. They lure you in with fabricated profits, and then when you want to withdraw, they invent reasons to keep your money. Since FXChoice is not regulated by any major authority like the MAS, there's no recourse. Your best bet is to report this to your bank and hope for a chargeback, but don't pay the fee. It's gone. That money is likely already lost.

Emma van den Berg · The Hague, Netherlandsanswered 29d ago
12

Oh dear. This is heartbreaking. I dealt with a similar situation a few years back with a platform that promised incredible gains. They called it a 'regulatory compliance fee'. Paid about 10% of my supposed profits. Never saw a dime of it back, and the 'account manager' disappeared. The fake documents are designed to look real. FXChoice being unregulated is the biggest clue. Please, do NOT pay them. Cut your losses and report them everywhere you can.

Mei Lau · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 29d ago
8

This is a classic setup. FXChoice, being unregulated, has no accountability. That 'risk management fee' is likely just a made-up hurdle to see how much more money they can get from you. They'll probably invent more fees if you pay this one. Report this to the CFTC, and also let your bank know immediately. It’s tough, but often the initial deposit is already lost when dealing with these types of brokers. Don't send them any more funds.

Lucas Ouellet · Calgary, Canadaanswered 29d ago
10

I nearly fell for this exact same thing with a crypto scam. They said I needed to pay a 'network fee' to unlock my supposed profits. It was such a gutting experience. The key is that they *invent* these fees when you try to withdraw. They want to see if you'll keep feeding the machine. FXChoice is unregulated – that's your biggest warning sign. Never send them any more money. Report them to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

Oliver Nguyen · Adelaide, Australiaanswered 29d ago
7

Ugh, that sounds like a classic scam tactic. I'm sorry you're going through this. FXChoice is NOT regulated by any major financial body like the CFTC or FCA, which is a huge red flag right there. They likely *don't* have your money anymore. The 'risk management fee' and the 'refundable' part are meant to trick you into sending them *more* money. Don't send them a cent more. Once they get another payment, they'll probably invent another fee.

Here's what you need to do ASAP:

  • Report it: File a complaint with the CFTC (if you're in the US) and your local consumer protection agency. Also, consider reporting it to IC3.gov – the Internet Crime Complaint Center. It feels like shouting into the void sometimes, but it's crucial for tracking these outfits.
  • Check your bank: If you funded this with a credit card, dispute the charges immediately. If it was a wire transfer or crypto, it's much harder, but still worth talking to your bank about potential fraud.
Megan Williams · Boston, USAanswered 29d ago

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