The firm operates under the name BlackRock Advisors (UK) and uses the same address and FCA firm registration number as the genuine company.
BlackRock said: “We are working with the regulator to help them eradicate these kinds of scams.”
The UK’s financial watchdog said there have been increasing reports of fraudsters using the details of authorised firms to convince people they belong to the company.
It also warned that people who hand over their money to clone firms will be not be able to access the Financial Ombudsman Service or the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
“Out of the blue”
“Fraudsters usually contact people out of the blue, so you should be especially wary if you have been cold called,” said the FCA in a statement.
“Be aware that the scammers may give out other false details or mix these with some correct details of the authorised firm.”
The genuine BlackRock firm is authorised to offer, promote or sell services and products in the UK.
Its’ correct details are:
Firm name: BlackRock Advisors (UK) Limited
Firm reference number: 119186
Address: 12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, UK, EC2N 2DL
