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Some fraudulent investment promoters fool visitors through web sites that make their "investment company" look like a solid, top-rated Wall Street investment firm. Other fly-by-night companies can feature slick-looking web sites that use graphics, audio and even video clips. Still others pique your curiosity with messages on Usenet groups that promise big profits and direct you to call or e-mail for more information. When you respond, you'll hear:

• offers of a "ground floor opportunities" for you to realize a better return on the investment than any other you're involved in

• guarantees of big profits in a short time

• claims that minimize or mask the risk involved

• lots of pressure to act now because the "market is moving."

Before you respond to any online investment opportunities, the Federal Trade Commission says to look for these signs of a company that may not be on the up-and-up:

• "THIS INVESTMENT IS IRA APPROVED": Some online investment opportunities may claim that their investment has been "approved" for your IRA. Don't believe it. The IRS does not "approve" investments for IRAs.

• "OUR WEB SITE WILL MATCH YOU WITH INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES": "Matchmaker" web sites offer to find investment opportunities that appeal to your unique interests. Ask questions. Get satisfactory answers. Do the operators of the web site disclose their identities and affiliations, if any, with the investments they're touting? Do they insist on their fee before they allow you to view their list of offerings? Who are you dealing with? Get detailed information about the company, be wary of any up-front fees, and keep your bank account information to yourself.

• "OFFSHORE INVESTMENTS ARE TAX-FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL": When the company behind the web site claims to be located offshore or offers an "offshore, tax-free" investment, get a second opinion from someone you trust - your attorney, financial advisor, or accountant - who is knowledgeable about the tax implications of "offshore" investments.

• "SUBMIT YOUR FINANCIAL INFORMATION ONLINE": Some internet sites may ask you to submit personal financial information online to determine whether you're an "accredited investor." In addition to your name and e-mail address, you may be asked for your income level, bank account information, Social Security Number and other personal information. Sometimes, this is a ploy to develop a "lead list" of potential investors. In any case, be very careful before you submit any personal information online. Before you do, visit the site's privacy policy. It should tell you what personal information the internet site collects and how the information is used.