Date published: 24.04.2025
What should you do if you’ve become a victim of investment fraud, a fake broker, or have lost money through deception? In this article, we explore the most common types of financial scams in the UK, how to avoid them, what to do after you’ve been scammed, and why it’s worth contacting the lawyers at Consultant.
Financial fraud in the UK is one of the most widespread forms of crime. Every year, thousands of people lose their savings by investing in fake projects, cryptocurrencies, or under pressure from aggressive pseudo-financial advisors. Ukrainians in the UK are among the most vulnerable due to language barriers, lack of experience, and reliance on “advice from chat groups.”
The Most Common Types of Scams
Investment Fraud:
“Brokerage platforms” showing attractive charts and promising profits
Cryptocurrency investment offers with no option to withdraw funds
Pyramid schemes disguised as investment clubs offering passive income
Push Payment Fraud (APP Fraud):
- Fraudsters convince the victim to transfer money to a "secure" account
- The fraudster disappears immediately after the transfer
Mis-sold Investments:
- Investment products sold without risk disclosures or proper suitability checks
- Often sold via well-known banks, insurers, or “partner” firms
Social Media Scams:
- Promises from “financial advisors” on Instagram, Facebook, Telegram
- "Investment tools for Ukrainians" with no legal structure
Typical Fraud Tactics
- Psychological pressure: “Offer valid only today,” “You’re losing your chance”
- Fake expertise: pseudo-analysts, fake websites with “testimonials”
- Complex terminology: confusing financial jargon to hide the scam
- Spoofing: fake emails or phone calls pretending to be from Barclays, HSBC, or HMRC
Where to Seek Help
If you've fallen victim to a financial scam, there are organizations you can contact yourself. However, the process can be complex — especially if you don’t speak English or are unsure how to complete legal forms. Here’s a list of official bodies in the UK that assist scam victims:
- Action Fraud – UK’s national fraud reporting center:
https://www.actionfraud.police.uk - FOS (Financial Ombudsman Service):
https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk - FSCS (Financial Services Compensation Scheme):
https://www.fscs.org.uk - FCA (Financial Conduct Authority):
https://www.fca.org.uk
You can also contact Consultant’s legal team if:
- You need help collecting documentation
- You need to file or dispute a complaint
- You are unsure which steps to take and in what order
- You want reliable legal representation in dealings with banks, brokers, or compensation bodies
We understand that this situation can be overwhelming and confusing. That’s why working with our lawyers is the fastest and most effective path to recovering your money and protecting your rights.
- We will prepare the correct complaint
- Collect all required documents
- Handle communication with banks, insurers, brokers, or regulators
- Support your case from start to resolution
We don’t just advise — we act.
Financial scams are a serious threat even in a stable country like the United Kingdom. If you’ve lost money, don’t stay silent. The law is on your side. You have the right to compensation, support, and legal assistance.
