You have worked hard to build your LGPS pension. Scammers may try to get their hands on your pension savings and these are on the increase. Watch out for scams related to the rising cost of living. These scams may take many forms and could be about insurance policies, pension transfers or high- risk investment opportunities, including investments in crypto-assets.
Anyone can be the victim of a pension scam, no matter how well informed they think they are. It is important that you can spot the warning signs.
Scams are hard to spot and are often disguised with credible websites, testimonials and materials which make them look like the real thing.
To help you spot the signs and protect yourself from a scam, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Pensions Regulator suggest following four simple steps:
Step 1 - Reject unexpected offers
If you’re contacted out of the blue about a pension opportunity, chances are it’s a scam. Pension cold calling is illegal, and you should be very wary. An offer of a free pension review from a firm you’ve not dealt with before, is probably a scam.
Step 2 - Check who you’re dealing with
Search ScamSmart and check the FCA’s register to make sure anyone offering you advice is authorised. If they are, check they’re permitted to give pension advice by calling the FCA Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 6768.
If you don’t use an FCA-authorised firm, you risk not having access to compensation schemes.
Step 3 - Don’t be rushed or pressured
Take your time to make all the checks you need – even if this means turning down what seems to be an ‘amazing deal’.
Step 4 - Get impartial information or advice
You should seriously consider seeking financial advice before changing your pension arrangements. In some cases, for example where you are wanting to transfer more than £30,000 from a DB scheme, you must obtain this advice.
Consider using MoneyHelper which provides free independent and impartial information and guidance.
If you suspect a scam, report it.
You can report an unauthorised firm or scam to the FCA using the online reporting form or on 0800 111 6768
If you suspect a scam, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at the Action Fraud website.
Be ScamSmart with your pension. To find out more, visit the ScamSmart website