How to protect yourself from financial fraud...

At a time of so much uncertainty having to deal with fraud could be the final straw and Enable’s IFA’s in Bishops Stortford want to help their clients protect themselves by being well informed.  You are likely to have heard of identity fraud where criminals manage to get hold of personal information about you so they can try and open accounts in your name, set up a mobile phone contract, or try and order other goods using a false name or in the worst case scenario empty a person’s current account.

Investment fraud is another thing to look out for - this is usually where potential savers are contacted by phone or email to invest in 'unbeatable opportunities' and with high yields 'guaranteed'. These kinds of false investment are often offered in high-risk unregulated products like art or diamonds. If it looks too good to be true it probably is.

The methods used by criminals tend to involve acquiring details taken from information freely available online like addresses and dates of birth posted on social media.  Sometimes all that is needed to open an account in that person's name birthdate and address. So don’t post such details on line.

Phishing is another trick criminal use, where people are tricked into clicking on links in emails or texts they often make them look as if they are from an official source, such as Revenue & Customs, a popular shop or someone you know.  Clicking on such links can download 'malware' on to your computer or phone, this is software that lets the robbers see account numbers and passwords that have been used on that device. So make sure you only download links from sources you are really sure of.
Source: Money Matters


Issued by: Enable Independent Financial Life Planners • 
25c North Street, Bishops Stortford, Herts CM23 2LD • Telephone: 01279 755950 - Fax: 01279 657339
Enable Independent Financial Life Planners is a trading style of Enable Independent Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
It is important always to seek independent financial advice before making any decision regarding your finances. If you would like any assistance, please contact us.
NOTHING CONTAINED IN THE ARTICLES SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS GIVING INDIVIDUAL FINANCIAL ADVICE