Pension scam 'red flags' dip after 2020 record high - XPS

Scam warnings

clock • 2 min read

Two-thirds (60%) of defined benefit (DB) pension transfers triggered a 'red flag' warning for potential fraud or scams last month but the figure was down from December's record-high, data from XPS Pensions showed.

The consultant's Transfer Watch revealed red flags for pension scams were at 60% in January this year, a fall from the record high 76% the month prior. However, this number remains high in light of the hike in scam concerns across the pensions industry. By comparison, in February 2020 the pension scam red flag index sat at 34%. XPS' Transfer Watch - which monitors how market developments have affected transfer values for a typical pension scheme member - also revealed transfer values remained stable for the start of the year. The transfer value index showed a slight, but steady, fa...

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 Pensions

HMRC repays £48.5m in overpaid pensions tax in third quarter of 2025

HMRC repays £48.5m in overpaid pensions tax in third quarter of 2025

Analysis finds savers have recouped more than £1.5bn since 2015 introduction of pension freedoms

Martin Richmond
clock 03 November 2025 • 4 min read
Govt ignores pension tax lock call as petition responses top 18,500

Govt ignores pension tax lock call as petition responses top 18,500

AJ Bell started petition; Govt forced to respond after 10,000 signatures

Jenna Brown
clock 23 October 2025 • 2 min read
How SIPPs and SSASs could help power the UK's energy goals

How SIPPs and SSASs could help power the UK's energy goals

'The role of pensions in supporting renewable energy deserves further consideration'

Caitlin Southall
clock 23 October 2025 • 4 min read