Take note of the twelve steps to investing. Before making an investment, you must ensure that you:
 
• Obtain written documents explaining the investment
 
• Read and understand such documents
 
• Verify the legitimacy of the investment
 
• Find out the cost and benefits associated with the investment

• Assess risk return profile of the investment
 
• Know the liquidity and safety aspect of the investment
 
• Ascertain if it is appropriate for your specific goals
 
• Compare these details with other investment options available
 
• Examine if it fits in with your other investments
 
• Deal only through an authorized intermediary
 
• Seek all clarifications about the intermediary and the investment
 
• Explore the options available to you if something goes wrong and only if satisfied, proceed with the investment