The SEC has created a fake cryptocurrency website to teach people about ICO scams
It’s been said that experience is the best teacher, and that’s presumably why the US Securities and Exchange Commission has created a website promoting a fake initial coin offering. Users who click “buy now” are sent to an informational site about ICO scams.
Howeycoins.com: The phony coin is named for the Howey Test, which can be used to determine whether a given asset meets the legal definition of a security or an investment contract like a stock or bond. The Howey Test has become a hot topic in cryptocurrency circles as the SEC grapples with whether or not some digital coins should be subject to regulations designed to protect investors against fraud.
Now that’s commitment: Kudos to the SEC for its thoroughness in designing a website that fits right in among the many out there selling scam coins. The agency even created a fake white paper (PDF). Now let’s hope prospective Howeycoin buyers learn their lesson.
Keep Reading
Most Popular
DeepMind’s cofounder: Generative AI is just a phase. What’s next is interactive AI.
“This is a profound moment in the history of technology,” says Mustafa Suleyman.
What to know about this autumn’s covid vaccines
New variants will pose a challenge, but early signs suggest the shots will still boost antibody responses.
Human-plus-AI solutions mitigate security threats
With the right human oversight, emerging technologies like artificial intelligence can help keep business and customer data secure
Next slide, please: A brief history of the corporate presentation
From million-dollar slide shows to Steve Jobs’s introduction of the iPhone, a bit of show business never hurt plain old business.
Stay connected
Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.