I hope this post serves as a cautionary tale and a call to vigilance for those who are just starting their journey in mergers and acquisitions. Unfortunately, the world of M&A is not immune to scammers, and I recently had a concerning encounter that I feel compelled to share with you all.

The Scam: False Promises of Help and Partnerships

In my pursuit of M&A opportunities, I encountered an individual who presented themselves as an experienced M&A professional eager to help. They claimed to have a network of valuable contacts, access to exclusive deals, and an eagerness to mentor and guide me through the intricacies of the M&A world. It sounded too good to be true, and it was.



NEVER, EVER DO ANYTHING WITH SOMEONE WHO WANTS MONEY OR AS THEY SAY "SKIN IN THE GAME" IN ADVANCE.

Red Flags to Watch Out For:

Lack of Transparency: Be cautious of individuals or organizations that are unwilling to provide specific details about their track record, past deals, or credentials. Legitimate professionals are usually proud to share their achievements.

Pressure Tactics: Scammers often use high-pressure sales tactics, insisting that you must act quickly or miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Take your time and don't rush into any partnership.

Request for Money Upfront: A common scam is to ask for an upfront fee or investment with the promise of multiplying your returns later. Be extremely skeptical of such requests.

Unverifiable Claims: If someone is making grandiose claims without providing concrete evidence or references, it's a major red flag.

Protecting Ourselves: Due Diligence is Key

Just as we meticulously research any potential business acquisition, it's crucial to apply the same due diligence when considering partnerships or mentorship arrangements. Don't be afraid to ask tough questions and demand verifiable information. Trust must be earned and not assumed.

Community Support: Helping Each Other Stay Safe

While it's disheartening to encounter scammers in our community, we can also protect each other by sharing our experiences and insights. If you've had a similar experience or encountered suspicious behavior, please share it here to raise awareness and help others avoid falling into the same traps.

Parting Thoughts

Remember, there are genuine, knowledgeable, and supportive professionals in the M&A world who are willing to help newcomers without ulterior motives. Trust your instincts, rely on due diligence, and lean on the wisdom of this community to navigate the M&A landscape safely.

Stay vigilant, stay safe, and let's continue to support and empower each other on our M&A journeys.

Dave