Over 22,000 cases of investor fraud were reported during the year ending September 2021. And that’s likely to be the tip of the iceberg as not all cases are reported. With criminals employing ever more sophisticated scams, we take security very seriously and have various systems in place to make sure your data is kept as secure as possible.
Here are five ways to keep your money safe:
- Hang up on cold calls
If you’re not expecting a phone call or if you don’t have an existing relationship with the company calling you, just put the phone down. If you receive a call from us and you’re not sure whether it’s legitimate, please end the call and give us a call back on our registered office number 01483 205890
- Don’t be pressured into making an instant decision
It can be difficult to not feel panicked by criminals who make you feel like you need to act quickly. We would never pressure you into making quick decisions or impose time limits.
- Check whether the investment is legitimate
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) have a useful ‘Warning List’ online tool you can use. It’s on their website at fca.org.uk/scamsmart/warning-list.
- Be alert to scam signals
Be wary of organisations asking you to email or tell them your full bank details or personal data over the phone. We’ll never ask you to use unsecured email to send us bank details. Instead, we have a secure method for sending emails and an online portal where you can view your investments.
- Seek financial advice
If you’re thinking about investing, even if it’s not with us, and you want a professional to talk things through with, please feel free to give us a call.