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Bismarck, ND - Robert H. Medhus, a former securities broker, has been criminally charged with securities fraud, the sale of unregistered securities, and theft of property.

Many of the products that claim to achieve these objectives are called "nutraceuticals," a term used to describe dietary
supplements and food and drink products that contain additives purporting to provide health benefits. While some of the companies producing these products are legitimate, others could be bogus operations with the potential to harm unsuspecting investors.

The Internet has become an inexpensive and easy way for individuals and businesses to raise money for their activities. Congress recently passed the JOBS Act, which directs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to create rules exempting crowdfunding from the securities registration laws. Once implemented these rules will remove restrictions on start-up companies seeking investors over the Internet. Investors should be on the lookout for unscrupulous issuers and intermediaries who may attempt to engage in crowdfunding before the rules are written or misuse crowdfunding to steal from investors through false and misleading representations.

Social Networking in the Internet age allows people to connect to one another more quickly and easily than ever before. Investment promoters increasingly are logging on to find investors...and their money.

Before investing through a social network, ask yourself these questions: Have I verified that the promoter is legitimate? Do I understand the risks of the investment?

Historically speaking, the value of gold-related investments fluctuates even more than the stock market. Gold often moves in reverse of stocks and bonds, so when stocks are down, gold seems like a very tempting investment. Before jumping onto the gold bandwagon, there are a few things you might want to consider.