FCA Warns UK Consumers About Unauthorised Firm Smart-ISA

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has warned consumers in the United Kingdom to avoid Smart-ISA, stating that the firm may be providing or promoting financial services without permission. The regulator said Smart-ISA is not authorised by the FCA and may be targeting people in the UK. The warning lists Smart-ISA websites at smart-isa.co and smart-isa.cc, along with mobile numbers 07441996332 and 07441947399. The FCA also identified several email addresses linked to the firm: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] and [email protected]. The regulator cautioned that unauthorised firms can use incorrect or changing contact details, including information belonging to another business or individual, to appear genuine. Consumers who deal with Smart-ISA would not have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service if they needed to complain. They would also be unlikely to receive protection from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme if the firm failed, meaning they might not recover their money. The FCA noted that people who sent money to a fraudster on or after 7 October 2024 may be covered by protections introduced by the Payment Systems Regulator, depending on the circumstances. The FCA advises consumers to use its Firm Checker before dealing with a financial business and to confirm that the firm is authorised for the specific services it offers. Anyone contacted unexpectedly should use contact details listed in the Firm Checker rather than replying through the original message. Suspected approaches from Smart-ISA or another unauthorised firm can be reported to the FCA on 0800 111 6768 or through its contact form.