Definitely right, but for some reason why people aren't just satisfied in holding alone because they want to gain more and that it brings them to try trading. But it was an unfortunate scenario that most new traders have been attracted to HYIP just like what it happen to OP and make them lose. Besides being attracted, we can't deny also how greediness drives into this and that is the possibility for OP's big loss.
That is very important to think wisely and act smartly. HYIP won't make us profitable but instead, it brings us to losing.