How to spot a clone financial firm
Learn how impersonators copy legitimate firm names or reference numbers and how to compare domains and contact details safely.
This is general consumer education, not legal or financial advice. Rules and register entries can change; check the current official record for the relevant service and jurisdiction.
Compare the exact web address
Look for extra words, misspellings, unusual subdomains, or different country endings. Do not assume a secure connection or familiar logo proves the site belongs to the authorised firm.
Verify contact details independently
Use the regulator's own record to find the firm's contact information. Do not use only the number, email, or verification link provided by the person contacting you.
Treat copied identifiers cautiously
An impersonator may repeat a real firm's name or reference number. Match the entity, domain, phone, address, and permissions together, and report suspicious contact through the relevant official channel.
Official sources
- FCA RegisterUK financial regulator
- FCA Register guidanceUK financial regulator
- ASIC register searchAustralian regulator
These links are starting points for checking current records. Their inclusion is not an endorsement and does not verify a particular company or offer.
Frequently asked questions
Is a matching licence number enough?
No. Match the legal entity and contact details as well; identifiers can be copied.
What should I do if a website differs from the register?
Pause contact and payments, then verify with the firm using independently sourced official details.