16 Jul 2026
Personal Data and Information Security – Stay Vigilant
Fraudsters use increasingly sophisticated tactics (including the use of Artificial Intelligence) to gain unauthorised access to members’ pension accounts:
- often during high-risk events such as transfers or retirement; and
- with a heightened risk in respect of members of UK pension schemes living in Africa.
Common methods include:
- Hacking email accounts or post to intercept pension correspondence;
- Impersonating members to change bank account details;
- Creating fake pension accounts using stolen data; and
- Exploiting weak or unsecured account credentials.
The Trustee is working with Capita to review processes and protect members.
However, it is important that members also stay vigilant!
In light of the continued incidents of data theft, fraud and scams, it is crucial to exercise caution when sharing personal information. Please ensure that your pension account details are kept up to date and when discussing your pension online, make cyber security a top priority.
Be on the lookout for suspicious emails or unexpected phone calls and always use password protection when sharing personal data. If you need to email sensitive details, ensure you do so securely and consider contacting the recipient for guidance. Consider implementing two-step verification where possible (see link below for guidance).
For additional guidance and tips on maintaining online security, visit:
The National Cyber Security Centre’s website
Top tips for staying secure online | National Cyber Security Centre
The City of London Police’s Identity fraud guidance www.cityoflondon.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa2/fraud/personal-fraud/identity-fraud
GOV.UK’s Stop! Think Fraud campaign
https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk
Pension Scams Action Group
Financial Conduct Authority
https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/protect-yourself-scams