Many scammers are sharpening their creative marketing skills to separate you from your money. The latest scam is a real doozy that has siphoned millions of dollars from investors' nest eggs.

This scam touts "IRA-approved" investments that have supposedly been reviewed, approved or qualified by the IRS. Come on - the IRS isn't in the business of helping you invest your money.

Most of these schemes promise a bonanza in retirement income from exotic livestock (including ostrich farms), real estate pools, and high-tech projects such as wireless cable television, specialized mobile radio (SMR), personal communication services (PCS), and interactive video and data services (IVDS).

To protect your money from these schemes:

• Avoid any investment touted as IRA or IRS approved.


• Don't buy an investment based solely on a television or radio advertisement.


• Beware of investments that promise no-risk and sky-high returns for your retirement savings.


• "Just say no" to investments involving a general partnership or limited liability company.

Before you turn over your money, check out any investment and its promoter with your state securities division. Visit the North American Securities Administrators Association for the office nearest you.

Remember, making money doesn't have to be hard or complicated. We'll help you find your road to riches without taking a dangerous path.

We're always on the lookout for scams that could harm your money. Check out our guides to protecting your finances below:

• 3 Ways to Protect Your Money From Harm
• 5 Simple Steps to Protect Your Identity
• Money "Deals" You Should Refuse