UK Consumer Watchdog Warns: Recovery Scam Firms Exploit Trustpilot to Re‑Target Victims

Which?, the UK’s independent consumer watchdog, has warned that scam victims recounting their experiences on Trustpilot are being targeted again by so‑called “professionals.” These fraudsters pose as recovery specialists offering to reclaim stolen funds, but instead defraud victims a second time.

Between November 2024 and November 2025, Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre, received 5,553 reports of recovery scams, with losses totaling £185.4 million.

Which? identified six bogus reimbursement firms claiming to provide legal or claims management services. Though listed as US‑based, their websites were registered in Germany. None is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), meaning they cannot legally offer financial or claims services in the UK.

All of these firms had suspicious reviews on Trustpilot. Which?’s further investigation discovered red flags:

• In one case, 93 reviews were written by the same person in one day, all praising one of these recovery services.
• All sites were created in September–October, coinciding with mass review activity. 
• Several had broken links, AI‑generated staff photos, or fake business addresses — including one listing the entire state of Pennsylvania, another tied to a dissolved company, and one linked to a virtual office.

After Which? raised concerns, Trustpilot confirmed it removed fake reviews, issued warnings to four firms, and placed permanent consumer alerts on all six profiles. The firms’ pages are now closed for new reviews, and accounts posting repetitive reviews were blocked.

Which?: How to get your money back after being scammed?

• Cash or gift vouchers: Recovery is difficult, but victims should still report to their bank, police, and the retailer.
• Bank transfers: Since October 2024, UK banks must reimburse faultless victims of Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud.
• Credit cards: Transactions over £100 may be covered under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.
• PayPal: purchases may be protected under its Buyer Protection scheme.
• Immediate action: Victims should call their bank immediately using the number on the back of their card and report the fraud to Action Fraud.
• FCA authorisation check: If you choose to use an organisation to assist your case, always verify that it is authorised by the FCA. Confirm registration on the FCA’s official register and avoid firms listed on the FCA’s warning list.

In October, verification firm KwikChex also issued a related warning, reporting that scam investment companies were abusing Trustpilot by posting fake five‑star reviews to appear legitimate.

BrokersView Reminds You

Do not trust any company claiming to recover fraud losses — especially losses to unauthorized schemes. Regulatory authorities themselves may not guarantee recovery. 

Report recovery fraud to BrokersView for public exposure and to help prevent further victimisation.