Director of Commerce Donna Owens will announce the Investor Bill of Rights on Friday, November 21 at 11:15 a.m. at the Lakewood Senior Center West, 16024 Madison Avenue, Lakewood.

The Investor Bill of Rights is a 10-point declaration that can help individual investors guard against becoming a victim of securities fraud and abuse. In addition, the Director will highlight the toll-free Ohio Investor Protection Hotline which gives prospective investors the ability to check on their securities salesperson, brokerage firm or the investment being offered before engaging in a transaction.

As Director of the Ohio Department of Commerce, Owens oversees the Division of Securities which regulates the sale of securities in Ohio. She will be joined by Ohio Securities Commissioner Thomas E. Geyer.

"As more and more people invest in securities every day, the individual investor needs to know that they have certain rights that can protect them from fraud and abuse," Director Owens said. "In light of the recent ups and downs on Wall Street, all investors should be aware of the information and the services they are entitled to concerning their securities portfolio."

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