United Kingdom
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
https://www.fca.org.ukThe Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is the UK's financial regulatory body responsible for regulating financial firms and markets. Although the UK is no longer an EU Member State, it remains a critical jurisdiction in financial fraud cases because many fraudulent platforms have historically used UK-registered entities, UK bank accounts, or have targeted UK residents alongside EEA victims. The FCA maintains one of the most comprehensive registers and warning lists of any financial regulator globally.
How to File a Complaint
Report unauthorised firms or suspicious activity through the FCA's online reporting form at fca.org.uk/consumers/report-scam.
The FCA accepts reports in English. Provide the firm's name, FCA reference number (if claimed), website URL, and contact details used.
Include a detailed chronological account of your interaction with the firm, including dates, amounts, payment methods, and the names of individuals you dealt with.
Attach all available evidence: emails, platform screenshots, transaction records, and any documents received.
For complaints about authorised firms, you may also be eligible to use the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS), which provides independent dispute resolution.
The FCA's ScamSmart tool (fca.org.uk/scamsmart) allows you to check whether an investment opportunity shows warning signs of fraud.
Register & Verification
The FCA Financial Services Register (register.fca.org.uk) is publicly searchable and contains details of all firms and individuals authorised or registered by the FCA or the Prudential Regulation Authority. Check the firm's authorisation status, permissions, and contact details. Be alert to clone firms that use the details of genuine authorised firms.
Key Regulations
- Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) -- the primary legislation governing financial services regulation in the UK.
- FCA Handbook -- comprehensive rules covering conduct of business, client assets, and financial crime.
- Payment Services Regulations 2017 -- UK implementation of PSD2 principles.
- Money Laundering Regulations 2017 -- UK anti-money laundering framework.
Typical Timelines
The FCA acknowledges reports but does not provide individual case updates due to confidentiality requirements. The FCA may add firms to its warning list within days or weeks of receiving reports. Enforcement investigations can take months or years. For complaints about authorised firms, the Financial Ombudsman Service aims to resolve complaints within 90 days, though complex cases may take longer.
Need Advisory Support?
If you have been affected by financial fraud and require structured advisory support, submit your case for a free preliminary assessment.
Request Case Assessment