Pension scam awareness

Protecting your pension from scams

Your pension is likely to be one of the most valuable things you own, which is exactly why scammers target it. Once money has left a pension, it is often impossible to get back.

Pension providers already carry out checks before they release a transfer, and the government has consulted on strengthening those checks further. We support that work, and we want everyone we speak to to feel confident asking questions before they move a penny.

Report a suspected scam See the warning signs
Reviewed September 2026 HMRC registered scheme administrator
SSAS pension consultation
Signed The Pensions Regulator's Pledge to Combat Pension Scams

Our commitment

We have signed The Pensions Regulator's Pledge to Combat Pension Scams. The pledge commits us to three principles:

  • Understanding the warning signs of pension scams
  • Helping people recognise those warning signs
  • Reporting concerns to the right authorities

Read about the pledge

Warning signs of a pension scam

Be cautious if anyone:

  • Pressures you to decide on the spot, or offers a deal that is only available for a short time
  • Promises guaranteed or unusually high returns
  • Offers a cash incentive or bonus for moving your pension
  • Offers to release money from your pension before the minimum pension age
  • Suggests investments that are hard to understand, or where it is unclear where your money will go
  • Gives only a mobile number or a PO box as their contact details
  • Asks you to keep the conversation to yourself

How to protect yourself

Take your time. Moving a pension should never be rushed. A genuine pension provider will welcome your questions and give you time to decide.

Ask clear questions. Where will your money go? Who will hold it? Who oversees the structure?

Check who you are dealing with. Look the company up on Companies House and read independent reviews.

Get free, impartial guidance. MoneyHelper offers free guidance on pensions and on spotting scams.

Listen to your current provider. If the provider releasing your pension raises a concern, take it seriously and ask them to explain it.

If you think you have been targeted

  • Stop. Do not sign anything or transfer any more money.
  • Contact your pension provider straight away.
  • Report it. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, contact Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101.
  • Tell The Pensions Regulator if your concern involves a pension scheme: thepensionsregulator.gov.uk/pension-scams
  • Get support from MoneyHelper on 0800 015 4402.

For wider advice on staying safe from fraud, visit the government's Stop! Think Fraud campaign.

About the structures we establish

These are corporate structures governed by HMRC rules and, as pension schemes, overseen by The Pensions Regulator. Holtram TLPI Ltd is registered with HMRC to administer pensions.