Spotting the warning signs
Scammers are skilled at pretending to be legitimate. They may send emails, texts or phone calls that look like they’re from your bank, HMRC, or even a well-known investment company. They often create a sense of urgency — saying your account is at risk, or that you must act immediately to claim a refund or avoid a penalty. If something doesn’t feel right, stop and check. Never share personal information, passwords, or one-time passcodes. Always verify requests through trusted contact details, not those provided in a suspicious message.
How a financial adviser helps protect you.
One of the biggest benefits of having a trusted financial adviser is knowing your money is managed safely and securely. An adviser can:
- Check the legitimacy of investment opportunities before any money is committed.
- Use regulated platforms and providers, ensuring your funds are properly protected.
- Monitor your accounts and communications, helping spot anything unusual early.
- Be a first point of contact if you receive something suspicious — they can quickly tell you if it’s genuine or a scam.
By letting your adviser handle your investments and savings, you reduce the chances of being pressured into hasty decisions or falling for persuasive fraudsters. At Parker Kelly we have experience in helping vulnerable clients manage their assets.
Having a financial adviser doesn’t just help you grow your wealth — it helps protect it. With professional oversight and secure systems in place, you can enjoy the confidence that your money is being looked after by someone who puts your best interests first.
If you think you’ve been targeted
If you receive a suspicious message, don’t respond. Contact your adviser straight away or forward scam emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and texts to 7726. If you’ve shared personal or banking details, contact your bank immediately. Acting quickly can help limit any harm and stop others being targeted.
Important Information: The value of investments and the income from them can go down as well as up, so you may get back less than you invest. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and all tax rules may change in the future. You cannot normally access money in a pension until age 55.
This information is not a personal recommendation for any particular investment or legal advice.