#regulatory-fees-scam

My 'broker' OptionsTradePro wants a 'regulatory compliance fee' to release my profits. Scam?

Hey everyone, feeling pretty stupid right now. I invested a decent chunk of savings, about 12,000 euros, with this online 'broker' called OptionsTradePro. Found them through an ad, chatted with a 'broker' on WhatsApp for a while, seemed legit enough at first. Made some good profits, or so they showed me on their platform. My account balance shot up to over 35,000 euros in a few weeks, which felt amazing. Now I want to withdraw my initial investment plus some profit, but they're asking for a 'regulatory compliance fee' of 5,000 euros first. They say it's to adhere to international financial regulations before funds can be transferred. This wasn't mentioned *anywhere* when I signed up. My partner says it smells like a scam. Is this a new tactic? I'm in Marseille, and I have no idea if the AMF France would even deal with something like this since they're based 'offshore'. Any advice?