Cloned Firm Fraud

Cloned firm fraud involves criminals copying the identity of a genuine, regulated financial services company — its name, registration number, address, and sometimes its logo and website design — to deceive consumers into believing they are dealing with a legitimate entity.

Victims are typically cold-called or targeted via social media adverts offering high-return investments. The fraudster uses the cloned firm's FCA or SEC registration number to pass initial checks, but any money paid goes to the criminals, not the real firm. The genuine firm knows nothing about the approach.

Always contact a financial firm using contact details you find on the official regulator's register — not those provided by the person who approached you. In the UK, check the FCA register at register.fca.org.uk and use only the contact details listed there. The FCA also maintains a warning list of confirmed cloned firms.