The enforcement section receives and investigates complaints from Missouri investors. Each year the staff receives more than 300 complaints, which may result in orders or other actions. It also refers cases for prosecution to local prosecutors or the attorney general, or the U.S. Attorney. The audit section performs unannounced examinations of broker-dealers and investment advisors to make sure that both the firms and their employees are in compliance with Missouri Securities Law. Through the Securities Division, the secretary of state is active in the area of investor education and has developed educational programs with elementary, middle and high school students, senior citizens and other groups within the state.
Brochures containing investment information are available from the division upon request.