Trust is everything in the world of trading—especially when dealing with signal providers, account managers, or so-called trading mentors. Many traders make decisions based on performance records. But not all trade histories are real. A growing scam known as the Self-Generated Trade History Scam involves fabricating performance records using fake screenshots, manipulated MT4 statements, or demo account activity presented as real trading.

This article uncovers how scammers create convincing but fake trade histories, how to spot the signs, and how to avoid falling for these manufactured records of success.

What Is the Self-Generated Trade History Scam?

The Self-Generated Trade History Scam involves an individual or entity creating fake or misleading trading performance records to gain trust, attract followers, or sell services. These fake trade histories are used to:

• Promote signal groups or paid mentorships
• Justify managed account services
• Sell bots or EAs
• Gain affiliate sign-ups to scam brokers

The “proof” is usually in the form of:

• MT4/MT5 screenshots
• Edited statements
• Excel files with fabricated returns
• Myfxbook or FX Blue links linked to demo or manipulated accounts

The aim is to trick traders into paying upfront fees or depositing with specific brokers based on imaginary success.

How the Scam Works

Step 1: Trader Encounters Impressive Results

The scammer promotes:

• 95% win rates
• “No losing days”
• $1,000 turned into $50,000 in weeks

This is often shared via:

• Instagram stories
• Telegram groups
• Facebook ads
• WhatsApp DMs

Step 2: Screenshots and Statements Are Presented

To “prove” their success, the scammer shares:

• Terminal screenshots from MT4/MT5
• MT4 account history exports that are edited
• Excel sheets showing equity growth
• Links to private Myfxbook pages (often demo or paused accounts)

The presentation is slick, and anyone unfamiliar with trade record verification may fall for it.

Step 3: You’re Asked to Buy In

After establishing credibility with the fake history, the scammer invites you to:

• Pay for signals or mentorship
• Buy a “high-accuracy” trading bot
• Invest into a “low-risk managed account”
• Sign up to a broker using their referral link

The scheme earns the scammer commissions, fees, or direct deposits—but delivers nothing in return.

Step 4: Ghosting or Excuses

Once payment is made:

• The scammer stops responding
• Signals fail immediately
• Bots do not function or blow accounts
• Withdrawal or refund requests are ignored

Some simply vanish, while others rebrand and repeat the scam elsewhere.

Red Flags to Watch For

Only Screenshots Provided as Proof

If someone refuses to share verifiable live account links and only sends cropped images, it’s almost certainly fake.

Myfxbook or FX Blue Pages Are Private or Demo

Legit traders make verified accounts public and use real trading servers. Demo accounts or private performance pages are major warning signs.

No Proof of Broker Statements or Regulated Accounts

Scammers avoid linking to broker-verified statements. They prefer local PDFs or images they can easily manipulate.

Returns Are Too Good to Be True

If the trade history shows 100% wins, no drawdowns, or consistent daily profits, it’s not a trading miracle—it’s manipulation.

Pressure to Act Fast

Scammers often create urgency:

“Only 10 seats left in this VIP signal group!”
“My bot’s licence price doubles after today!”

This prevents deeper investigation.

How to Protect Yourself

Request Full, Verified Account Links

Only trust results from platforms like Myfxbook or FX Blue with public access, real broker servers, and verified status.

Use the Broker’s Official Statement Feature

If someone claims big wins, ask them to export an official broker statement in PDF with account ID and broker name.

Compare Trade History with Live Market Charts

Some scammers generate trades in demo accounts at perfect prices. Cross-check their entries against real-time market data to expose fraud.

Never Pay for Signals Without a Trial or Proof

If there’s no free trial, verifiable history, or refund guarantee, avoid paying.

Avoid Blind Broker Sign-Ups

Scammers often push you to sign up to shady brokers through their link. Don’t deposit based on fake performance metrics.

Conclusion

The Self-Generated Trade History Scam is all about perception—creating the illusion of expertise and success to sell services or siphon funds. With a few screenshots and clever edits, scammers prey on hope, urgency, and the trust traders place in performance records.

To build the skills to independently assess trading strategies, read real trade data, and avoid fraud, enrol in specialised Trading Courses that teach trade verification, broker vetting, and how to separate real results from clever fakes.