How To news
10 stories on how to, newest first. Every story is dated and cites its sources.
- June 2026
Which? finds cancelled card loophole can let fraud follow replacement cards
Which? has found that automatic card updating services can carry stolen card details onto replacement cards, and that most major high street banks give customers no way to opt out.
- December 2025
FCA launches firm checker tool to help consumers avoid scams
The Financial Conduct Authority has launched a new firm checker tool so consumers can confirm whether a financial services firm is authorised and holds permission to sell products and services.
FCA launches Firm Checker tool
The Financial Conduct Authority has launched Firm Checker, a tool for consumers to confirm whether a financial services firm is authorised and holds the permissions it needs, aimed at helping people avoid scams.
FCA aims to finalise new advice rules by end of 2025
The Financial Conduct Authority says it aims to finalise rules on targeted support and simplified advice by the end of 2025, with targeted support scheduled to launch in March 2026.
HSBC Life (UK) Limited acquired by Chesnara plc and renamed Chesnara Life (UK) Ltd
HSBC Life (UK) Limited has been bought by Chesnara plc and renamed Chesnara Life (UK) Ltd, with policyholders and advisers notified by letter or email during December 2025 and January 2026.
- January 2025
The Co-operative Bank acquired by Coventry Building Society
Coventry Building Society bought The Co-operative Bank on 1 January 2025, and now plans to transfer the bank's business, including smile, into the society on 1 January 2027.
- April 2023
Which? research finds banks mishandling Power of Attorney registration
Which? research published on 3 April 2023 found that banks mishandle power of attorney registration, restrict attorneys' online access and give misleading advice, while building societies performed better.
- March 2023
Government announces Dormant Assets Scheme can support financial education and capability
The government has said it will examine whether the Dormant Assets Scheme can fund financial education and capability, alongside £76 million already allocated for affordable credit.
- May 2022
Government announces revamp of lasting power of attorney system
The government has set out plans to let people make a lasting power of attorney entirely online, with new identity checks, while keeping the paper route open.
- February 2022
Dormant Assets Act 2022 receives Royal Assent
The Dormant Assets Act 2022 received Royal Assent on 24 February 2022, extending the dormant assets scheme beyond bank and building society accounts to insurance, pension, investment and securities assets.