Scammers are busy! Are you aware of their sophistication?
15 September 2025Scams and frauds have come in many formats over the years and are to some extent nothing new. However, the sophistication in the ways they are deployed seems to be evolving. I am not sure if this is simply the ability of scammers to use AI technology to improve their screening or otherwise; however, a reminder to be very aware of scams is always worthwhile.
Most are aware that connectivity has increased through the use of the internet, email, social media and the like. With many seeing their old home telephone numbers being switched off, and the transfer of calls and contact to mobile technology, the ability to receive unrequested contact seems to have increased, rather than reduced.
Being cautious and aware at all times is important. Check where an email contact has really come from, or if a text is from a company or individual you know (and trust), rather than from a fraudulent source. As an example, a recent scam alert was highlighted by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to note that a scam campaign had been uncovered where the rogues had been pretending to be the regulator itself. Alongside this, we have recently seen news coverage of large corporations experiencing significant cyber-attacks, with trading / production stalled for some time and employees told to stay at home.
As an additional point, we have even had some news from contacts of Government Gateway login details being hacked. Logging in to your Government Gateway (for example, to check your State Pension forecast) is sensible to ensure that all remains in order.
Making sure that the cyber-security protections that you maintain on your computer and other internet-enabled devices are up to date is normally important, and updating your passwords on a regular basis is also usually recommended. It’s also worthwhile checking your credit records regularly to ensure that your identity and financial situation remain secure and that there are no unexpected entries such as loans or credit card applications. Your bank might offer some form of credit check facility or, alternatively, there are agencies which will offer this service. Further details may be found on the MoneyHelper website here: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/everyday-money/credit/how-to-check-your-credit-report
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As you might expect, the team at Chapters Financial takes cyber-security seriously and we update our systems on a regular basis. In addition, if we receive email communications from clients to make significant changes, or withdrawals from funds, you might well expect a call from the team to check in that the request is genuine and from the correct source.
Keeping your data safe is vital, especially as scammers seem in recent times to have upped their game. Please do check that you are protected and keep vigilant into the future.
Keith Churchouse FPFS
Director
CFP Chartered FCSI
Chartered Financial Planner
Chapters Financial Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, number 402899
