Delaware’s Division of Corporations is efficient. Free search often shows little more than a name, file number, formation date and registered agent. Deeper status reports and document copies cost money. That design helps ordinary companies — and it also helps anyone who wants a US-looking wrapper without publishing beneficial owners on the free page.
Scam desks love saying “Delaware corporation” the way others say “London office”. Incorporation is not a financial licence, not deposit insurance, and not proof of audited reserves. Plenty of real firms use Delaware; plenty of disposable brands do too.
When a pitch leans on the state name, ask for the regulator authorisation that actually covers the product you are buying. Look up the entity, then look up the licence. If only the first exists, you are staring at stationery.
Help routes: Get help. If a “refund agent” appears next, see Fake recovery.
This article is for general information only. It is not legal or financial advice. Details change. If you have lost money, contact your bank or card issuer and use the routes on the help pages.