It is impossible to totally avoid HYIP scams since recent statistics revealed that over 95% of HYIP's/Gold Games run off with some of their member's money. However, you can reduce the risk quite a bit by simply following the steps I outline below:

#1 Ask the Admin for as much personal information as possible. Also, check out all the information he/she provides. If he/she gives a phone number, then give them a call. If an address is given, then check it out for authenticity by looking at online phonebooks, and other databases. The more information that is available, the less likely it is that the admin will take the chance of scamming hundreds of people out of their investments.

#2 Beware of the following:

-Look to see if the site is at it's own domain name or if it's at a free anonymous subdomain. Many scam sites tend to use various free hosting sites that allow them to make their own site without registering a domain name, thus remaining anonymous.

-Is the HYIP spamming you or others by emailing hundreds or thousands of individuals with their advertisement? If they are breaking the law by spamming hundreds or thousands of people, then how can you trust them with your hard earned money. Criminals are criminals whether it is a small crime like email spam or a more serious crime such as fraud, theft or scamming.

#3 Check out the various Forums, Message boards and ratings sites for as much info as you can find. I know that many forums and ratings boards can be manipulated; however I also realize the value of peoples opinions.

You will never be able to completely avoid scams, but you can learn to improve your odds of increasing your profit.