This is what we call a 'clone firm'; and fraudsters usually use this tactic when contacting people out of the blue, so you should be especially wary if you have been cold called. They may use the name of the genuine firm, the 'firm reference number' (FRN) we have given the authorised firm or other details.
You can find out more about this scam tactic and how to protect yourself from clone firms.
Clone firm details
Fraudsters are using or giving out the following details as part of their tactics to scam people in the UK:
Whitestone Financial Planning/WS Financial Planning (Clone of
FSA former Appointed Representative)
324/326 Regent Street Office, 404 4 th Floor Albany House, London, W1B 3HH
and
Austria Vienna International Centre, PO Box 117 1400, Vienna. Austria
Tel: 0203 318 8721 and 0043 720 880517
Fax: 0207 900 2833 and 0043 125 36722 7312
Website: www.wsfinancialplanning.com
Be aware that the scammers may give out other false details or mix these with some correct details of the authorised firm.
FCA authorised firm details
This FCA authorised firm that fraudsters are claiming to work for has no association with the ‘clone firm’. It is authorised to offer, promote or sell services or product in the UK and its correct details are:
Firm name: Whitestone Financial
Firm Reference Number: 220557
Report a clone firm
If you think you have been approached by an unauthorised or clone firm, or contacted about a scam, you should contact our Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 6768. If you were offered, bought or sold shares, you can use our share fraud reporting form.
You can see more ways to report an unauthorised firm and find out what to do if you have been scammed.
What to do if your firm is cloned
If you think your authorised firm has been cloned or scammers are fraudulently using your name or other details, contact our Firm Helpline on 0845 606 9966 (call rates may vary).