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Fake Collateral

Definition

Fake collateral refers to assets presented as security for a loan or financial position that are nonexistent, overvalued, or otherwise fraudulent. This deceptive practice involves misrepresenting the quality or existence of pledged assets to obtain credit or leverage, creating an illusion of solvency. Such schemes can lead to substantial financial losses for lenders and undermine market confidence. It represents a severe form of financial fraud, often discovered during audits or periods of market stress.