'Clear mistrust' of online financial services adverts

Most savers want the government to legislate to ensure websites do not promote financial scams

Holly Roach
clock • 3 min read

More than half of internet users (53%) do not trust that the adverts on search engines are placed by a legitimate financial services company or provider, according to Aviva research.

The insurer's Fraud Report - published today (24 August) - found consumers have "low trust" in the internet as a tool for shopping for financial services. The report also revealed 56% of people do not believe that the authenticity of the financial product, service, or provider being advertised is verified by search engines. Of those, Aviva found a difference in trust according to age, with just 29% of those over 55 trusting the results of a search engine compared to 59% of those aged 16 to 24. The firm also said the Covid-19 pandemic has "accelerated the need for action" as 50% of ...

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 Technology

Carlyle emerges as buyer in Intelliflo takeover deal – report

Carlyle emerges as buyer in Intelliflo takeover deal – report

Private equity group Carlyle secures ownership of Intelliflo

Sahar Nazir
clock 20 August 2025 • 3 min read
As advisers are zigging to AI, how do you zag?

As advisers are zigging to AI, how do you zag?

'Be visible. Be local. Be helpful before you’re needed'

Harry Webster
clock 14 August 2025 • 4 min read
AI in financial services: Hype, hope, or a bit of both?

AI in financial services: Hype, hope, or a bit of both?

'It's important to maintain a healthy dose of scepticism and here's why...'

Doug Boyce
clock 06 August 2025 • 4 min read