The typical funnel
Contact often starts on a public platform (a comment, a dating app, a wrong-number text) before moving to WhatsApp or Telegram "for easier communication" - a private channel with no public accountability, screenshots, or reviews other victims could find.
Group dynamics as a tool
Large Telegram "trading groups" showing constant screenshots of gains and other members' seemingly genuine enthusiasm - these are commonly staged, with paid participants or bots creating social proof pressure to join in.
Why the platform switch itself is a signal
Legitimate brokers and financial educators don't need to move you to an unmonitored private channel to do business - regulated activity happens through verifiable, accountable channels, not disappearing messages.
What to do
Treat any unsolicited move to a private messaging app as a reason to slow down, not speed up. Verify the person or firm independently, on a channel you found yourself - not one they provided.