Warning to shareholders:
share fraud and boiler room scams

General information

Please be aware that there has been an increase in share fraud and boiler room scams where investors receive unsolicited telephone calls from fraudulent companies, typically overseas based ‘brokers’, offering to buy shares in Companies, including CPP. We would like to advise shareholders to be vigilant of any unsolicited advice, offers to buy shares at a discount or offers of free company reports. While they promise high returns, those who invest usually end up losing their money. Please see the information below on what you should do if you are contacted in this manner.

How to protect yourself

Make sure you get the correct name of the person and organisation and make a record of any other information they give you e.g. telephone number, address etc.

Check that they are properly authorised by the FSA before getting involved by visiting www.fsa.gov.uk/register/ and contacting the firm using the details on the register.

Report the matter to the FSA either by calling 0845 606 1234 or visiting www.fsa.gov.uk/pages/consumerinformation If the calls persist, hang up.

Should you receive such a call we strongly recommend that you consult your stockbroker, bank manager, solicitor, accountant or other professional adviser authorised under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 as soon as possible. Please report such activity to the Financial Services Authority by visiting their website and using the share fraud and boiler room reporting form.

If you have already paid money to share fraudsters you should contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040

For further guidance please read the FSA guidance on boiler room scams and the FSA's top 10 tips to protect your savings.