FCA accused of aiding scammers through its register

Advisers describe it as a “complete shambles”

clock • 2 min read

Advisers have urged the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to fix its register, claiming it currently misleads clients and allows scammers to take advantage of consumers.

Since the Senior Managers and Certification Regime came into effect last week, individual advisers are no longer required to be listed on the FCA's register. Yardstick financial services agency founder Phil Bray complained the revised register would "actually help scammers" now it has reduced ways for the public to check the validity of advisers. Just looked up an adviser on the FCA Register to see the message: "Regulatory approval no longer required." When it should be used to fight scams and as we saw with OneCoin FCA decisions are used by fraudsters, the Register is a complete m...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Regulation

Failed financial advice firms tracker

Failed financial advice firms tracker

Firms that the FSCS has confirmed as failed since the start of 2023

Professional Adviser
clock 31 March 2026 • 1 min read
Data-driven or anecdotal? Examining FCA Consumer Duty board reports

Data-driven or anecdotal? Examining FCA Consumer Duty board reports

'Data is not a by-product of systems; it is a core governance asset'

Chris Davies
clock 27 March 2026 • 6 min read
Advisers warned against 'cost-saving' exercises as FCA proposes ditching annual suitability requirement

Advisers warned against 'cost-saving' exercises as FCA proposes ditching annual suitability requirement

Changes offer an opportunity for more ‘meaningful’ advice

Sophia Panayi
clock 26 March 2026 • 4 min read