Avoiding Scams
Scams come in many different forms so it is imperative that you know what to look out and how to best protect yourself.
From phishing, vishing, investment to computer software fraud, the list is endless. As scammers become more and more sophisticated it can often be hard to distinguish what is genuine and what is not. More recently, scammers have used the Coronavirus outbreak to scam people of money.
You can access a beginner’s guide to scams offered by the Money Advice Service here.
For scams specific to Coronavirus, you can find more information here.
Whatever you do, remember your A B C:
Assume it is a scam until you can confirm it isn’t
Be careful with your personal information
Check before you take action or respond
Our short video used for our school programme highlights some key and essential points relevant to people of all ages.
If you are unexpectedly approached about an investment opportunity that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Fortunately there are steps that you can take to spot these scams and avoid risking your life savings.
Read the full guide on how to “Scamproof your savings” from the Pensions Regulator »
Seek Financial Advice
The Financial Conduct Authority recommends that if you have been unexpectedly approached about an investment opportunity that you are interested in pursuing, you should first seek impartial advice from a financial adviser unconnected to the firm that has contacted you.
The yourmoney adviser directory is the largest of it’s kind, listing over 20,000 advisers who hold a valid Statement of Professional Standing issued by the professional body (the Personal Finance Society). These advisers are not only registered with the FCA, but have also undertaken rigorous qualifications and are committed to continuing personal development.
Search for a local financial adviser you can trust »
Be on the lookout
See how Clive Osborne, a retired teacher and rock climbing instructor, avoided losing £5,000.
How to scamproof yourself
- Stop. Think about it. A genuine adviser will never rush you into a decision
- Make sure the adviser is registered by the Financial Conduct Authority at www.fca.org.uk/register
- Look at the FCA’s Scamsmart warning list at www.fca.org.uk/scamsmart – this will tell you the names of investment schemes that are known scams
- If you are approaching 55 or about to retire, Pension Wise can tell you more about what you can do with your retirement pot. Visit the website at www.pensionwise.gov.uk
- Before you sign anything, call The Pensions Advisory Service on 0300 123 1047 for information and advice about pension scams
- If you’ve already signed the papers, report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040
Resources
Be on the look out
See how Clive Osborne, a retired teacher and rock climbing instructor, avoided losing £5,000.
