I lost over half a million to an online forex trading scam

$780 of $542,000 goal
Given by 3 generous donors in around 5 months

63 year old tradie lost lifesavings to an online scam

Havelock North, Hawke's Bay

At 63 years old and not exactly tech-savvy, I entered the world of online trading through Forex Trading on March 13, 2023, hoping to secure both mine and my daughter's future. Investing my life savings, I initially contributed $250 USD, trusting my appointed broker, Mark Z, to guide me with low-risk trading. Mark's persuasive demonstrations of enticing returns led me to add another $4,000 USD to my trading account, feeling confident in its safety. His constant communication—emails and calls every weeknight—strengthened my trust as the profits appeared to grow.

Eager for a chance to slow down on work, I invested further, believing this venture could ensure our financial stability. Yet, under Mark’s guidance, I took out personal loans totaling $69,000, sold my property, and even parted with my beloved jet boat, all reassured by his promises of future fortune. Over 13 months, I made 67 deposits, totaling over $516,000—all in pursuit of a better future for my daughter and myself. However, I came to the devastating realization that Mark was a scammer, who took everything I had. Now, renting the home I once owned, I feel overwhelmed by the reality of his deceit and the dishonesty I never believed possible, which cost me everything I had worked for.

Use of funds

The funds raised is to enable me and my daughter to purchase back our home ; That we once owned prior to selling. As the new owner of my property is a good friend of one of the painters we use

What money is raised will go into a special savings account; Till such time we have the sufficient funds needed to purchase back our home

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Latest donations

Vicki
Vicki on 19 Dec 2024
Hope you guys can recover from this
$280
Tk
Tk on 19 Dec 2024
I sincerely hope you reach your goal! X
$300
Private Donor
Private Donor on 19 Dec 2024
$200

Who's involved?

Russell Knox's avatar
Created by, and paying to a verified bank account of, Russell Knox
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This campaign started on 7 Dec 2024 and ended on 7 May 2025.