OFSI warns public about scams impersonating sanctions office

LONDON, July 24, 2026 — OFSI has warned that scammers may impersonate the agency to demand payments, cryptocurrency or sensitive financial information, using official looking branding and language to make fraudulent communications appear genuine.

The agency said it never charges for sanctions license applications or requires payments to release frozen funds, avoid enforcement action or verify compliance with UK financial sanctions. It also does not unexpectedly request banking information, financial details or security credentials.

The guidance gives compliance teams and other recipients several markers for authenticating purported OFSI communications. Official UK government email addresses end in “gov.uk,” although a professional appearance or government display name alone does not establish that a message is genuine.

OFSI said it does not contact people by text message or WhatsApp. Communications demanding immediate payment to avoid fines, penalties or other consequences should be treated with caution.

Recipients who are uncertain about a communication can contact OFSI through official details published on GOV.UK, including ofsi@hmtreasury.gov.uk. Suspected phishing emails can be reported to the National Cyber Security Centre, while victims or people who suffer financial losses can report the matter to Report Fraud or, in Scotland, Police Scotland.