Protect your business from investment fraud

The criminals often contact people out of the blue via phone, email or text. They also use paid advertising on website or social media to lure customers to a fake investment website. To avoid investment scams:

• Be wary of unexpected investment phone calls even if they seem to be giving you details you think only a genuine investment company would have. Never be afraid to hang up.
• Don’t be pressured by ‘time limited offers’. It’s often a trick to make you act quickly without having the chance to research.
• Never use the financial advisor that may be suggested by the company offering the financial product.
• Search the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) list of unauthorised businesses which are believed to be involved in fraudulent activities.
• Make sure the firm you use is on the FCA register and is allowed to give financial advice. You can search by entering its name, reference number (FRN number) or postcode. Double check they are not a ‘clone firm’.
• Check online to see if there are any warnings or criticism about the firm.
• Double-check the website address (URL) and contact details of a firm in case it’s a ‘clone company’ pretending to be a real firm.
• Never get talked into an investment, always check independently. Seek reputable independent/legal advice before you commit to an investment.