Fake Pensions Ombudsman letters with false contact details target UK pension holders

What is this scam?

The Pensions Ombudsman (TPO) issued a formal September 2026 warning about fraudulent letters and emails falsely claiming to originate from the regulator, telling recipients they are owed pension compensation or that urgent action is required regarding their scheme. The fake correspondence carries false phone numbers and email addresses that connect victims to fraudsters rather than TPO staff. Victims who engage risk transferring pension savings to criminals or handing over personal details used in targeted follow-up scams. TPO never contacts individuals unsolicited about compensation — it only corresponds with people who have already submitted a complaint through the official tpo.org.uk website.

Example scam message

Red flags to look out for

• The message creates urgency — threatening a fine, missed delivery, or account closure.
• Links lead to unofficial domains that don't match the real company's website.
• You weren't expecting this message and can't verify the event it references.
• It asks you to confirm payment details or personal information via a link.
• The sender's number or email address doesn't match the company's official contact.

What to do if you receive this

1. Do not transfer money — your bank will never ask you to move funds to a 'safe account'.
2. Hang up and call your bank directly on the number printed on the back of your card.
3. Report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk.
4. If you've already transferred money, contact your bank immediately and ask about the APP fraud refund scheme.