It’s estimated that over £1bn is lost to investment fraud each year in the UK. It occurs when fraudsters pressure people into buying investments that promise high returns but, in reality, are either worthless or non-existent. The most common type of investment fraud is share (equities) fraud, but fraudsters have also been known to offer investments in gold, land abroad, carbon credits, diamonds, shares in hotels or car parks, bamboo and fine wine.

Investment fraud is often sophisticated and very difficult to spot. Fraudsters can be articulate and appear financially knowledgeable. They may have credible websites, testimonials and materials that can be hard to distinguish from the real thing, so it’s essential you know how to spot the warning signs.