Cashpoint

Savers who plan to make decisions about how to access their pension pots in the new year are being warned of the high risk from scammers. Last year a record-breaking £2.3million was stolen from nest eggs by crooks during January alone.

Every second, eight people in the UK are targeted by cold callers trying to get their mitts on hard-earned savings.

Pensions Minister Guy Opperman said: “January is a great time to think about your pension options but I would urge consumers to be on their guard against cold callers.”

Keep your retirement income safe from thieves. Hang up on cold callers and if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Stop, think and check out any financial firms or investment offers on the Financial Conduct Authority’s Scamsmart website at fca.org.uk/scamsmart. If in doubt call the Pensions Advisory Service on 0300 123 1047 or visit pensionsadvisoryservice.