Warning over loan scams

Struggling mortgage holders told fake loophole claims could worsen problems

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Mortgage holders who are struggling with their payments are being warned they could make problems worse by acting on fake claims about legal loopholes and conspiracy theories claiming they cannot be held liable for their debts.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) said that people in financial difficulty and at risk of losing their home should beware of misleading claims that they are not legally bound by their mortgage contract.

It urged struggling borrowers to instead speak to their lender, who could offer various options to support them.

The FCA has updated its consumer web pages to warn people about false and harmful information.

The regulator said it is aware of mortgage holders in financial difficulty being misled by online misinformation, often with serious financial consequences.