Use the FCA’s Financial Services Register to search for the insurer or broker by its legal name, trading name or firm reference number (FRN). Check that its status is shown as authorised and that it has permission for insurance distribution, then compare the listed website and contact details with the ones you are using. Be cautious if details do not match, as unauthorised firms or “clone” companies may imitate genuine businesses. If you are unsure, contact the FCA or the provider using details from the Register before paying or sharing personal information.