Check the official record.
Start with the authority for your location and the legal entity offering the service. Check the current record, not a screenshot or badge on a broker’s website.
FCA
Check permissions, firm details and the full Financial Services Register.
Search the registerReporting guidanceASIC
Search professional registers and check investment scam alerts.
Search the registerReporting guidanceCySEC
Check investment firms and match the website against approved domains.
Search the registerReporting guidanceCFTC / NFA
Use NFA BASIC to check registration status and disciplinary information.
Search the registerReporting guidanceLook beyond the name
Match the legal entity, website and contact details. Confirm that the permissions cover the activity being offered. Use regulator-listed contact details when you need to speak to the firm.
For Cyprus investment firms, also consult CySEC’s approved domains. For Australian warnings, use ASIC’s investment scam alerts.
A missing warning is not a clean bill of health
Warning lists do not identify every risky or fraudulent operator. An entry in a register also does not remove investment risk. Check status, permissions and identity together.
Keep a record of your checks
Note the date, legal entity, licence number, domain and regulator page. Recheck these details when the firm or account arrangement changes.
Further guidance: FCA scam protection and CFTC registration checks.