Use the FCA Firm Checker or Financial Services Register on the official FCA website to search the provider’s legal name, trading name or reference number. Check that its status is current and that its permissions include the insurance activities it is offering, rather than assuming authorisation covers every service. Confirm the contact details shown on the register, as fraudsters can impersonate authorised firms or use similar names. If you are unsure, contact the FCA or choose an FCA-authorised insurer or broker and verify its details independently.