Iowa’s top investments watchdog is warning people to steer clear ofpotential schemes with what’re called “promissory notes.” The notes are basically I-O-U’s in which companies promise to pay investorsset amounts. Iowa Superintendent of Securities Craig Goettsch sayspromissory notes are becoming popular investment scams that especiallytarget the elderly.When a company promises returns of up to 30 percent, Goettsch says it’slikely they’re up to no good.Goettsch says to check out any agents first with the state securities bureauby calling toll-free 800-351-4665.