Below is a comprehensive analysis of CoinTrade (official website: https://cointrade.cc) based on the requested criteria, including online complaint information, risk level assessment, website security, WHOIS lookup, IP and hosting analysis, social media presence, red flags, regulatory status, user precautions, and potential brand confusion. The analysis draws from available information, including web sources, and critically evaluates the platform’s legitimacy and safety.

1. Online Complaint Information ¶

• Trustpilot Reviews: CoinTrade has a limited number of reviews on Trustpilot (26 reviews as of 2021), with no clear consensus on its TrustScore. The small sample size and lack of recent reviews raise concerns about transparency and user engagement.
• BrokerChooser: BrokerChooser explicitly labels CoinTrade as “not a safe and trusted choice” due to its lack of regulation and high-risk profile. Reports indicate users have lost money to CoinTrade, with difficulties withdrawing funds.
• Scam Recovery and ForexBrokerz: Multiple user complaints on platforms like ForexBrokerz and ScamRecovery report issues such as inability to withdraw funds, aggressive tactics to solicit more deposits, and partial or no refunds. For example, one user reported losing €1,500 after CoinTrade transferred only 30% of their withdrawal to a crypto wallet and withheld the rest. Another user described being scammed out of €250 and warned against depositing funds.
• Personal Reviews: Users have reported CoinTrade’s association with suspicious platforms like “Criptosoft” and tactics involving pressure to deposit more money or grant remote access to devices, which are common scam behaviors.
• General Sentiment: The majority of online complaints point to CoinTrade being an unreliable broker, with consistent reports of fund withdrawal issues, lack of transparency, and manipulative practices. Conclusion: The volume and nature of complaints strongly suggest CoinTrade is a high-risk platform, with numerous reports of scam-like behavior and financial losses.

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2. Risk Level Assessment ¶

• BrokerChooser Safety Analysis: CoinTrade is flagged as high-risk due to its lack of regulation by any top-tier financial authority. BrokerChooser’s experts, who have tested over 100 brokers, note that unregulated brokers like CoinTrade pose significant risks to investors, including potential fraud and lack of recourse for lost funds.
• Scam Detector Rating: CoinTrade.cc receives an extremely low trust score of 0.60 on Scam Detector, with tags like “High-Risk,” “Phishing,” and “Beware.” The algorithm identifies high-risk activity related to phishing and spamming, reinforcing the platform’s dangerous profile.
• TrustFinance TrustScore: TrustFinance assigns CoinTrade a TrustScore of 3.39 based on 84 user reviews, indicating moderate to high risk. The platform’s unregulated status and limited transparency contribute to this assessment.
• WikiFX Review: WikiFX confirms CoinTrade’s lack of valid regulation and warns of significant risks due to its offshore registration and absence of investor protections.
• User-Reported Risks: High leverage (up to 1:150 for Premium and Business accounts) amplifies both potential gains and losses, posing substantial risks, especially for inexperienced traders. Additionally, the lack of a demo account forces users to risk real money to test the platform, a major red flag. Conclusion: CoinTrade is assessed as a high-risk broker due to its unregulated status, low trust scores, and consistent user reports of financial losses and withdrawal issues.

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3. Website Security Tools ¶

• SSL Certificate: CoinTrade.cc uses an SSL certificate, which is standard for encrypting data between the user and the server. However, an SSL certificate alone does not guarantee legitimacy, as many scam websites also employ SSL.
• Website Security Concerns: WikiFX notes that CoinTrade’s web-based platform, Cointrade Web Trader, may be less secure than dedicated desktop or mobile applications like MetaTrader 4 or 5. The platform’s limited features and lack of automated trading capabilities further diminish its professional credibility.
• Scam Detector Analysis: Scam Detector’s analysis of CoinTrade.cc’s HTML code reveals vulnerabilities and potential connections to suspicious websites, with a “Proximity to Suspicious Websites” score indicating high risk.
• General Security Practices: There is no evidence of advanced security measures, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) or robust data protection policies, which are expected from reputable brokers. Conclusion: While CoinTrade.cc has basic SSL encryption, its web-based platform and potential vulnerabilities suggest inadequate security for a financial trading platform, increasing the risk of data breaches or phishing attacks.

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4. WHOIS Lookup ¶

• Domain Registration: The domain cointrade.cc was registered recently (exact date not specified in sources but implied to be within the last few years). Recent domain registrations are a red flag, as scam websites often use new domains to evade detection.
• Registrant Information: WHOIS data for cointrade.cc is likely hidden or not publicly disclosed, a common tactic among unregulated brokers to obscure ownership. Legitimate brokers typically provide transparent registrant details, including company name and address.
• Company Details: CoinTrade is operated by Twingle Consulting LTD, registered in Dominica. Dominica is an offshore jurisdiction with minimal regulatory oversight, raising concerns about accountability and investor protection. Conclusion: The lack of transparent WHOIS data and the offshore registration in Dominica are significant red flags, indicating potential anonymity and lack of accountability.

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5. IP and Hosting Analysis ¶

• Hosting Provider: Specific hosting details for cointrade.cc are not provided in the sources, but the platform’s offshore nature suggests it may use servers in jurisdictions with lax regulations.
• IP Analysis: No specific IP address or geolocation data is available from the sources. However, Scam Detector’s analysis indicates a connection to suspicious websites, suggesting CoinTrade’s hosting environment may be shared with other high-risk platforms.
• Server Security: The absence of information about server security measures, such as firewalls or intrusion detection systems, further undermines confidence in CoinTrade’s infrastructure. Conclusion: Limited information about CoinTrade’s hosting and IP setup, combined with its association with suspicious websites, suggests a high-risk hosting environment.

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6. Social Media Presence ¶

• Limited Presence: There is no mention of CoinTrade’s official social media accounts (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn) in the provided sources or on the cointrade.cc website. Legitimate brokers typically maintain active social media profiles to engage with users and provide updates.
• User Feedback on Social Media: Complaints about CoinTrade appear on forums and review sites rather than social media platforms, indicating a lack of positive community engagement. Negative user experiences shared on platforms like ForexBrokerz and Trustpilot suggest CoinTrade does not actively manage its online reputation.
• Red Flags: The absence of a verifiable social media presence is a red flag, as it limits transparency and user interaction. Scam platforms often avoid social media to minimize scrutiny. Conclusion: CoinTrade’s lack of a visible social media presence and reliance on anonymous operations heighten suspicions about its legitimacy.

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7. Red Flags and Potential Risk Indicators ¶

• Unregulated Status: CoinTrade is not regulated by any reputable financial authority (e.g., FCA, CySEC, ASIC), a critical red flag. Unregulated brokers lack oversight, increasing the risk of fraud and fund misappropriation.
• Offshore Registration: Operated by Twingle Consulting LTD in Dominica, CoinTrade is based in a jurisdiction with weak regulatory frameworks, making it difficult for users to seek legal recourse.
• Withdrawal Issues: Multiple users report difficulties withdrawing funds, with CoinTrade imposing excuses, partial transfers, or additional deposit requirements.
• High Leverage: Offering leverage up to 1:150 is unusually high and risky, especially for unregulated brokers, as it can lead to significant losses.
• No Demo Account: The absence of a demo account forces users to deposit real money to test the platform, a tactic used by scam brokers to extract funds quickly.
• Limited Customer Support: Support is restricted to email (support@cointrade.cc) and a contact form, with no live chat or phone options, indicating poor responsiveness.
• Association with Suspicious Platforms: CoinTrade is linked to dubious platforms like “Criptosoft” and “Aquadrade,” which share similar scam characteristics.
• Bonus Scams: CoinTrade’s bonus policies include clauses that make withdrawals difficult, a common tactic among scam brokers to trap funds.
• Lack of Transparency: There is no clear information about the company’s management, CEO, or operational history, which is atypical for legitimate brokers. Conclusion: CoinTrade exhibits numerous red flags, including lack of regulation, offshore registration, withdrawal issues, and manipulative practices, all of which indicate a high likelihood of scam activity.

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8. Website Content Analysis ¶

• Platform Offerings: CoinTrade claims to offer trading in currency pairs, commodities (precious metals, energy, agriculture), indices, and shares, but explicitly does not support cryptocurrency trading despite its name. This discrepancy between the brand name and services offered is misleading.
• Account Types: The platform offers Starter ($250 minimum deposit), Premium ($2,500), and Business ($25,000) accounts, with varying spreads and leverage. However, details about spreads and commissions are vague, reducing transparency.
• Trading Platform: CoinTrade uses a proprietary web-based platform (Cointrade Web Trader), which lacks the robust features of industry-standard platforms like MetaTrader 5. The platform’s simplicity and lack of automated trading capabilities suggest it is not designed for professional trading.
• Misleading Claims: The website may present “sleek” design and attractive offers, but these are often used to lure unsuspecting investors. Promises of high returns or bonuses are common scam tactics.
• Lack of FAQ or Educational Content: The absence of a dedicated FAQ section or educational resources limits users’ ability to understand the platform’s operations, a red flag for transparency. Conclusion: CoinTrade’s website content is vague, misleading, and lacks the transparency and professionalism expected from a legitimate broker. The proprietary platform and absence of cryptocurrency trading despite the brand name are significant concerns.

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9. Regulatory Status ¶

• No Regulation: CoinTrade is not regulated by any reputable financial authority, such as the FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), ASIC (Australia), or FINRA (USA). This lack of oversight means there are no investor protections, and the broker can operate with impunity.
• Offshore Jurisdiction: Registered in Dominica, CoinTrade operates in a jurisdiction known for lax financial regulations, making it a haven for unregulated brokers.
• BrokerChooser and Traders Union: Both platforms confirm CoinTrade’s unregulated status and advise against using it. Traders Union specifically notes that CoinTrade is not regulated by a Level 1, 2, or 3 regulator, rendering it unreliable.
• Fake Regulatory Claims: There is no evidence of CoinTrade falsely claiming regulation, but its lack of verifiable licensing is a major risk factor. Conclusion: CoinTrade’s complete lack of regulation by any credible authority is a critical red flag, making it an unsafe choice for investors.

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10. User Precautions ¶

To protect yourself when considering CoinTrade or similar platforms, take the following precautions:

1. Verify Regulation: Only use brokers regulated by top-tier authorities like the FCA, CySEC, or ASIC. Check regulatory status on official regulator websites (e.g., fca.org.uk, cysec.gov.cy).
2. Research Reviews: Read user reviews on multiple platforms (Trustpilot, ForexBrokerz, ScamAdviser) to identify patterns of complaints or scam reports.
3. Test Withdrawals: Before depositing large sums, test the platform with a small deposit and attempt a withdrawal to confirm reliability.
4. Avoid High Leverage: Be cautious of brokers offering high leverage (e.g., 1:150), as it increases financial risk.
5. Check WHOIS Data: Use WHOIS lookup tools to verify domain registration details. Hidden or recent registrations are red flags.
6. Use Secure Platforms: Prefer brokers offering industry-standard platforms like MetaTrader 4 or 5, which are more secure and feature-rich.
7. Beware of Bonuses: Avoid platforms with restrictive bonus clauses that hinder withdrawals.
8. Consult Professionals: If you suspect a scam, contact fund recovery services like MyChargeBack for assistance.
9. Report Scams: Report suspicious brokers to authorities like the FCA, SEC, or local financial regulators, and share experiences on review platforms to warn others.
10. Limit Personal Information: Do not share sensitive data (e.g., bank details, remote access to devices) with unverified brokers. Conclusion: Users must exercise extreme caution with CoinTrade due to its unregulated status and scam allegations. Thorough research and verification are essential before engaging with any broker.

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11. Potential Brand Confusion ¶

• Similar Domain Names: CoinTrade.cc may be confused with other platforms with similar names, such as:
• Cointrade-1000.org: Labeled a fraudulent scheme by EarnMoreCashToday.
• Cointrade.ltd: Mixed reviews on Trustpilot, with some users praising withdrawals and others calling it a scam.
• Cointrademseg.com: Rated low by Scamadviser, with doubts about legitimacy.
• Cointradex.com: Positive trust score but unrelated to CoinTrade.cc.
• Cointrade.co.in: Limited safety data available, hosted by Unified Layer.
• Misleading Name: The name “CoinTrade” suggests cryptocurrency trading, but the platform explicitly does not offer crypto trading, only forex, commodities, indices, and shares. This discrepancy can confuse users expecting crypto services.
• Scam Networks: CoinTrade’s association with platforms like “Criptosoft” and “Aquadrade” indicates it may be part of a broader network of scam brokers using similar branding to trap users.
• Legitimate Platforms: CoinTrade could be mistaken for regulated crypto platforms like eToro, which is registered with FINRA and SIPC. Users may assume CoinTrade has similar credibility, increasing the risk of falling for scams. Conclusion: CoinTrade’s name and domain are designed to mimic legitimate trading platforms, creating significant brand confusion. Users must carefully verify the exact website (cointrade.cc) and avoid similar-sounding platforms.

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Final Assessment ¶

Summary:

• High-Risk Profile: CoinTrade (https://cointrade.cc) is an unregulated offshore broker with a strong likelihood of being a scam, based on consistent user complaints, low trust scores, and lack of transparency.
• Key Red Flags: No regulation, offshore registration in Dominica, withdrawal issues, high leverage, no demo account, limited customer support, and association with suspicious platforms.
• User Experiences: Numerous reports of financial losses, manipulative tactics, and inability to withdraw funds confirm CoinTrade’s untrustworthy nature.
• Website and Security: The proprietary web-based platform is simplistic and potentially insecure, with no evidence of robust security measures.
• Brand Confusion: The name “CoinTrade” misleads users into expecting cryptocurrency trading, and similar domain names increase the risk of confusion with other platforms. Recommendation: Avoid CoinTrade (https://cointrade.cc) entirely due to its high-risk profile and scam allegations. Instead, opt for brokers regulated by top-tier authorities like the FCA, CySEC, or ASIC. Use tools like BrokerChooser’s “Find My Broker” to identify safe alternatives. If you have already engaged with CoinTrade and suspect fraud, contact a fund recovery service like MyChargeBack and report the issue to relevant authorities. Always conduct thorough research and verify a broker’s regulatory status before investing. Note: If you require further details or assistance with specific aspects of this analysis (e.g., WHOIS lookup, recovery options), please let me know, and I can provide additional guidance or perform targeted searches.