KOT4X
We are investigating KOT4X for allegedly attempting to conceal critical reviews and adverse news from Google by improperly submitting copyright takedown notices. This includes potential violations such as impersonation, fraud, and perjury.
PARTIES INVOLVED : KOT4X
ALLEGATIONS : Perjury, Fraud, Impersonation
INCIDENT DATE : 22 Aug 2024
INVESTIGATED BY : Ethan Katz
TOOLS USED : Lumen, SecurityTrails
CASE NO : 2803/A/2024
CRIME TYPE : Intellectual Property Scam
PUBLISHED ON : 22 Nov 2024
Is This About You?
What We Are Investigating?
Our firm is launching a comprehensive investigation into KOT4X over allegations that it has been suppressing critical reviews and unfavorable Google search results by fraudulently misusing DMCA takedown notices. These actions, if proven, could constitute serious legal violations—including impersonation, fraud, and perjury.
We conducted comprehensive analyses of fraudulent copyright takedown requests, meritless legal complaints, and other unlawful efforts to suppress public access to critical information. Our reporting sheds light on the prevalence and modus operandi of a structured censorship network, often funded and used by criminal enterprises, oligarchs and criminal entities seeking to manipulate public perception and bypass AML checks conducted by financial organisations.
The fake DMCA notices in this investigation appears to have been strategically deployed to remove negative content from Google search results illegally. Based on this pattern, we have reasonable grounds to infer that KOT4X - or an entity acting at its behest - is directly or indirectly complicit in this cyber crime.
In most such cases, such ops are executed by rogue, fly-by-night 'Online Reputation Management' agencies acting on behalf of their clients. If evidence establishes that the subject knowingly benefited from or facilitated this scam, it may be deemed an 'accomplice' or an 'accessory' to the crime.
What are they trying to censor
KOT4X, a forex and CFD brokerage firm, has faced numerous allegations and red flags over the years, raising serious concerns about its credibility and business practices. These issues have significantly tarnished its reputation, potentially motivating the company to suppress damaging information, even through illicit means.
Major Allegations and Red Flags:
- Regulatory Concerns: KOT4X has been accused of operating without proper regulatory oversight in key jurisdictions. The company claims to be registered in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), a jurisdiction known for its lax regulatory environment. This lack of robust oversight has led to skepticism about the legitimacy of its operations.
- Withdrawal Issues: Numerous clients have reported difficulties in withdrawing funds from their accounts. Complaints on forums and review sites allege that KOT4X imposes unreasonable conditions or delays payouts, a common red flag for potential scams.
- Misleading Advertising: KOT4X has been criticized for aggressive and misleading marketing tactics, including promises of high returns with minimal risk. Such practices are often associated with fraudulent schemes targeting inexperienced traders.
- Negative Reviews and Scam Allegations: Online reviews and complaints on platforms like Trustpilot and Forex Peace Army paint a troubling picture. Clients have accused KOT4X of manipulating trades, freezing accounts, and refusing to honor withdrawal requests. These allegations suggest a pattern of unethical behavior.
- Lack of Transparency: The company’s ownership and management structure remain opaque, raising questions about accountability. This lack of transparency is a significant red flag in the financial services industry.
- Adverse Media Coverage: Investigative reports and exposés have highlighted KOT4X’s questionable practices, further damaging its reputation. These stories often emphasize the risks associated with trading on unregulated platforms.
Reputational Harm and Motivation for Suppression:
The allegations against KOT4X directly harm its reputation by eroding trust among potential and existing clients. In the highly competitive forex and CFD market, trust is paramount. Negative reviews, regulatory concerns, and withdrawal issues deter traders from engaging with the platform, ultimately impacting revenue.
If KOT4X were to resort to cybercrime to remove damaging information, it would likely target negative reviews, investigative articles, and forum discussions. Removing such content could create a false impression of legitimacy, luring unsuspecting traders to the platform. However, such actions would be illegal and unethical, further compounding the company’s legal and reputational risks.
Investigative Perspective:
The pattern of allegations against KOT4X suggests a company struggling to maintain credibility in a skeptical market. While there is no direct evidence of KOT4X engaging in cybercrime, the motivation to suppress damaging information is clear. The company’s survival depends on attracting new clients, and negative publicity undermines this goal. However, any attempt to manipulate online narratives through illegal means would only deepen the crisis, exposing KOT4X to legal repercussions and further reputational damage.
In conclusion, KOT4X’s history of regulatory concerns, client complaints, and adverse media coverage paints a troubling picture. While the company may benefit from removing such information, doing so through cybercrime would be a dangerous and unethical escalation, ultimately harming both the company and its clients.
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/44007488
- Aug 22, 2024
- ApexLink Technologies LLC.
- https://kot4x.com/
- https://www.myfxbook.com/reviews/brokers/kot4x/1760787,1
Evidence Box
Evidence and relevant screenshots related to our investigation
Targeted Content and Red Flags
About the Author
The author is affiliated with TU Dresden and analyzes public databases such as Lumen Database and
Maltego to identify and expose online censorship. In his personal capacity, he and his
team have been actively investigating and reporting on organized crime related
to fraudulent copyright takedown schemes.
Additionally, his team provides
advisory services to major law firms and is frequently consulted on matters
pertaining to intellectual property law.
Escalate This Case
Learn All About Fake Copyright Takedown Scam
Or go directly to the feedback section and share your thoughts
How This Was Done
The fake DMCA notices we found always use the 'back-dated article' technique. With this technique, the wrongful notice sender (or copier) creates a copy of a 'true original' article and back-dates it, creating a 'fake original' article (a copy of the true original) that, at first glance, appears to have been published before the true original
What Happens Next?
Based on the feedback, information, and requests received from all relevant parties, our team will formally notify the affected party of the alleged infringement. Following a thorough review, we will submit a counter-notice to reinstate any link that has been removed by Google, in accordance with applicable legal provisions. Additionally, we will communicate with Google’s Legal Team to ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
You are Never Alone in Your Fight.
Generate public support against the ones who wronged you!
Recent Investigations
Robert Hellgren
Investigation Ongoing
Dr. Stanley Bernstein
Investigation Ongoing
Melford Capital Partners
Investigation Ongoing
User Reviews
Average Ratings
2.2
Based on 17 ratings
by: Melody Beats
It’s not just unregulated—it’s outright fraudulent. Avoid KOT4X at all costs unless you enjoy losing sleep and money.
by: Aria Cadence
Their system is designed to wipe you out slowly, and when you try to withdraw, suddenly your account gets flagged.
by: Jazz Monroe
KOT4X is one of the most manipulative platforms I’ve ever dealt with. Fake charts, fake support, real losses. 📉
by: Yara Riddle
I warned my cousin not to use KOT4X, he didn’t listen… lost $3k in less than a week. Smh it’s always the same story.
by: Brixton Snider
Why are they even allowed to operate if they ain’t got real regulation? SVG don’t count. Total joke.
by: Adilene Zamora
Yo, I got scammed by these guys last year. Tried to withdraw, kept getting the runaround. Stay away.
by: Emerald Bonner
Can’t trust a company that hides who runs it. No info on their team, no licenses, just marketing hype and influencers.
by: Elio Duffy
Honestly, if your broker ain’t regulated, you’re gambling twice. KOT4X is a risk not worth taking.
by: Belle Robbins
KOT4X is just a bunch of smoke and mirrors. Fancy website, shady business.
by: Denver Yates
Tried withdrawing my funds for weeks. Every time, it’s some excuse. Total scam vibes here.
by: Eden Long
these forex scams all follow the same playbook: no regulation, impossible withdrawals, and fake promises of easy money. Y’all be careful!
by: Jasper Powell
Unregulated = Unprotected. These brokers aren’t here to make you rich; they’re here to make THEMSELVES rich off your money.
by: Eden Long
these forex scams all follow the same playbook: no regulation, impossible withdrawals, and fake promises of easy money. Y’all be careful!
by: Isabelle Grant
This company seems to manipulate charts and prices to trigger stop losses, with unusual price spikes and wicks that don't match other platforms. Slippage is normal, but the inconsistencies here raise suspicions.
by: Ethan Allen
I've invested over $6,000 in KOT4X, but my account was archived, preventing me from making transfers, deposits, or withdrawals. It's been over 20 days with no response from support or live chat. If anyone else is facing the same issue,...
by: Zane Thomas
I had a frustrating experience with this broker due to chart manipulation and suspected unethical practices. Despite trying them twice, I found myself losing money consistently....
by: Ursula Mitchell
If you’re a swing trader, you might want to steer clear of this platform. The spreads and swaps during market closures are unbelievably high. I’ve tested this multiple times by placing trades with stop losses before the market closes, but...
Cons
Website Reviews
Stop fraud before it happens with unbeatable speed, scale, depth, and breadth.
Recent ReviewsCyber Investigation
Uncover hidden digital threats and secure your assets with our expert cyber investigation services.
Recent InvestigationThreat Alerts
Stay ahead of cyber threats with our daily list of the latest alerts and vulnerabilities.
Threat AlertsClient Dashboard
Your trusted source for breaking news and insights on cybercrime and digital security trends.
Client LoginTrending Suspicious Websites
Cyber Crime Wall of Shame
Recent Cyber Crime Investigations