Scam alert: Bitcoin

Criminals are issuing emails containing links to fraudulent websites that are designed to steal your money, as well as personal and financial information.

What to watch out for
Be incredibly cautious when receiving any email relating to cryptocurrencies or Bitcoin, even more so when they are encouraging investment opportunities.

How to avoid falling for these scams

• Don’t be rushed into making an investment. Remember, legitimate organisations will never pressure you into making a transaction on the spot.
• Always seek advice first. Speak with a trusted friend or family members and seek independent professional advice before making significant financial decisions.
• Use the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) register to check if the company is regulated by the FCA. If you deal with a firm (or individual) that isn’t regulated, you may not be covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) if things go wrong and you lose your money

For more information about how to invest safely, please visit: https://www.fca.org.uk/scamsmart

What action should you take?
If you receive an email which you are not quite sure about, please report it to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service by forwarding the email to report@phishing.gov.uk

Further information and support

• If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent, hang up.
• If you believe you have been the victim of fraud or identity theft, you should report this directly to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
• If you think you may have handed over your card details to scammers, please let us know immediately.