Key points
- A real licence number on an unfamiliar site is the classic clone sign
- The register's contact details are the ones to trust
- Regulators publish warning lists of known clones
How a clone works
A clone copies a licensed firm’s name, logo and licence number, then gives its own website, phone number and email. A quick search for the number seems to confirm it, because the number is real.
How to spot one
- The website or email domain differs from the one on the register.
- The firm contacted you first, often by phone or messaging app.
- You’re asked to pay into a personal account or with crypto.
What to do
Stop paying, keep every message and receipt, and contact the regulator using the details on its own site. You can check any number in our licence lookup and tell us about a suspected clone.