You may have seen the headlines around pension scams in the media over recent days.

It is a sad but true fact that scams can arise in any area of life, not just financial services.

At present, pensions are being targeted because the recent rule changes mean that many people have questions on what they should be doing with their pensions. Having a friendly approach out-of-the-blue from a stranger who offers to answer those questions can seem like a tempting offer and it is easy to get drawn in.

However, there are a few steps that anyone can take to protect themselves from scams:

Reject unexpected pension offers whether made online, on social media or over the telephone

Check who you’re dealing with before changing your pension arrangements. Call the FCA on 0800 111 6768 or check the FCA Register to see if the firm you are dealing with is authorised by the FCA

Don’t be rushed or pressured into making any decision about your pension

Consider getting impartial information and advice from a financial adviser, Citizens Advice or The Pensions Advisory Service

If you have any concerns at all about approaches you have had, please feel free to get in touch with us too and we will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.