What this means for you test

If you deal with this firm, you won't have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service if you have a complaint. You also won't be protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) if things go wrong. This means it's unlikely you'd get your money back if the firm goes out of business.

How to protect yourself

You should only deal with financial firms that are authorised by us. If a financial firm is authorised by us, it gives you greater protection if things go wrong. You can check our Financial Services Register to make sure a firm is authorised and has permission for the service it's offering you. You'll also be able to find:

• information on how you're protected
• contact details for authorised firms

If you're contacted unexpectedly by a financial business or individual, make sure you reply using the contact details on the FS Register. Find out more about how to protect yourself from scams.

Report a clone firm

If you think you've been approached by an unauthorised or clone firm, call us on 0800 111 6768, or use our contact form.