Toronto –The Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) is encouraging the public to consider the difference between marketing publications and investment advice. Unsolicited investment newsletters are commonly sent out by fax and e-mail by firms that are paid to promote investments. Before you act on the material, consider that it may not give you a balanced picture.

Promotional Language:

• Headings such as "Hot tip" and "Special Alert" will attract your attention to information that seems authoritative and professional, but may not provide the whole story.
• Statements like "the potential to make our readers wealthier than they ever imagined"- potential is not a guarantee.
• Claims that other smart investors are already following this advice - in the hopes that you will follow the crowd.

What you should watch out for:

• Fine print that contradicts what's promised in the newsletter. Look for statements like "The reader assumes all risk as to the accuracy and the use of this document."
• Free stock research that you didn't ask for. Chances are that someone who doesn't know anything about you or your investment objectives doesn't have your best interests in mind.
• Promotions for companies that are not listed on a stock exchange. These companies may be subject to less regulation and have fewer disclosure requirements - which means higher risk.
• References to current events like commodity shortages and global terrorism to create a sense of urgency. These are high-pressure sales tactics.

The following tips will help you protect your money:

• Recognize that unsolicited investment newsletters do not take the place of advice from a registered industry professional.
• Past profits do not guarantee future results.
• Any person or company selling securities or offering investment advice in Ontario must be registered with the Ontario Securities Commission. Call the OSC at 1-877-785-1555 to confirm the registration of any such individual or company.