ScamSmart
Be ScamSmart
Scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Fraudsters can be articulate and financially knowledgeable, with credible websites, testimonials and materials that make scams harder to spot. Scammers usually contact people out of the blue by phone, email or text, or even advertise online. Scammers might also be introduced to you by a friend or family member, who is unknowingly being scammed. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. It’s important to always do your own checks before making any decision about investments or pensions and don’t be rushed or pressured into making a decision.
Almost all firms offering financial services in the UK must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority and you can check their warning list to see if a person or company who is asking for your money is known to be operating without authorisation. You can also check the FCA’s register to find out whether a firm you are using, or plan to do business with, is authorised.
- Reject unsolicited contact about investments.
- Block any suspicious emails and report them.
- Check the FCA Register before investing for the individual or firm who approached you.
- Check the FCA Warnings List for people to avoid
- Get impartial advice before investing.
Remember, the scams are getting smarter so you need to be ScamSmarter.