You are reminded to remain alert to potential scams including offers:

- to withdraw your pension benefits before the age of 55

- of exceptionally high returns on your investments for transferring out benefits

Consequences of these scams can be high tax charges or even the loss of your entire pension benefits.

If you are approached by an individual or company who talk about liberating or transferring your benefits please ensure the person contacting you is approved and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority – this can easily be checked by accessing the FCA’s website at www.fca.org.uk/register

If you have any doubts you can also contact the Pensions Advisory Service at www.pensionsadvisoryservice.org.uk or the Pensions Regulator at www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk. Contact your provider and call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 if you've already signed to a transfer and think you've been scammed.

Remember, never be pressured to make a decision about your pension benefits and if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!