Reject “out of the blue” contact regarding your pension and hang up. This is illegal and a likely sign of a scam. You can report pension cold calls to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

Always check who you are dealing with. The person or firm you’re dealing with should always be regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and authorised to provide pension advice. Check any details you have against the FCA register - register.fca.org.uk.

You can check an investment or pension opportunity you’ve been offered on the FCA Warning List - https://www.fca.org.uk/scamsmart/warning-list . You can also review a number of useful materials on the FCA’s ScamSmart pages - https://www.fca.org.uk/scamsmart.

You can also view the Pension Scam Leaflet here: https://www.fca.org.uk/publication/documents/pension-scams-leaflet.pdf

Only use the telephone number and email address on the FCA Register, not the contact details the firm gives you. Look out for subtle differences.

Never be rushed or pressured. Perform a thorough internet search on the person or firm you are dealing with. Do they have a good reputation? Check on forums and social media for reviews.

Ignore any offers of a ‘free pension review’

If you are thinking about an opportunity, consider seeking independent financial advice before you commit. Do not take advice from the company that contacted you directly. We would encourage obtaining financial advice from an FCA regulated adviser. Alternatively, MoneyHelper provides free and impartial information and guidance.

Report any suspicions of a scam to Action Fraud using their online reporting tool (www.actionfraud.police.uk) or by calling 0300 123 2040.