Police Scotland is issuing a warning to the public following a devastating investment fraud, involving a man from Aberdeen, who lost his retirement fund to sophisticated fraudsters.
The victim was targeted by criminals posing as legitimate financial advisors who falsely claimed to have successfully invested his pension pot into high-yield opportunities. Using professional-looking fake documents and high-pressure tactics, the scammers gained his complete trust over several weeks. The alarm was finally raised by the pension company due to large sums being withdrawn by the victim.
Key Warning Signs of Financial Fraud
Unsolicited cold calls, emails or online advertisements offering high returns with little to no risk.
Pressure to make quick financial decisions or transfer funds immediately.
Companies or individuals that are not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Protect Yourself and Your Money:
Always check the FCA Register to ensure any financial firm or advisor is fully authorised.
Legitimate advisors will never rush you or demand secrecy.
Report
If you believe you have been targeted by an investment scam, contact your bank immediately using a known official number (such as the one on the back of your card) and report the incident to Police Scotland on 101.
This messaging system is not for reporting crime as responses are not monitored 24/7. If you have time-critical information regarding the content of the above message, or if you wish to report any other non-urgent matter, please call 101. In an emergency, call 999.
Police Scotland’s North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City. The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function. Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community. These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues. They are assisted by the division’s Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.
