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Investigations by the SEC
The SEC conducts investigations confidentially for two main reasons. First,
we can conduct investigations more effectively if they are not announced publicly. For
instance, important documents and evidence can be destroyed quickly if people hear of an
investigation. Second, investigations are kept confidential to protect the reputations of
companies and individuals if we find no wrongdoing or decide we cannot bring a successful
action against them. As a result, the SEC will not confirm or
deny the existence of an investigation unless, and until, it becomes a
matter of public record.
An investigation becomes public when the SEC files an action in court or in its
internal administrative process. You can find information about public enforcement actions on our website.
http://www.sec.gov/answers/investg.htm
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