Page 54 - 期货和衍生品行业监管动态（2025年12月）

期货和衍生品行业监管动态

FCA Launches Firm Checker to Fight Financial Crime (2025/12/10)

Around 800,000 people reported losing money to investments or pensions-related

scams in the 12 months to May 2024, according to FCA research.

To help fight this financial crime, the FCA has launched Firm Checker, a tool to

help consumers avoid scams. By using the tool and checking if a firm is authorised

and has the correct permissions to provide services, people can significantly reduce

their chances of falling victim to fraud.

Those who had experienced any Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud or

unauthorised consumer investments or pensions-related fraud, were most likely to

have heard about it by seeing it promoted on social media – around 1 in 6 (17%) - or

via a telephone call (17%).

Sixteen per cent were initially approached via text message, WhatsApp or

another messaging service.

Scammers can make it difficult for consumers to know if they are dealing with

the real firm. In addition to checking if a financial services firm is authorised by the

FCA for the services being offered, people should also confirm that the contact details

match those listed on the FCA Firm Checker.

Sheree Howard, executive director of authorisations at the FCA, said:

‘Ruthless fraudsters are constantly evolving their tactics so they can steal money

from innocent victims. Whether you’re considering an investment, pension

opportunity, loan or other financial service, use Firm Checker to confirm the firm is

authorised and help fight financial crime.’

The research also found consumers are taking some precautions to protect

against fraud, but there is room for improvement. Around 3 in 4 (72%) adults said

they always or usually reject or ignore unsolicited calls, emails or text messages about

investment or pension opportunities.

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