Advice Don't fall for some fly by night company that contacts you because you have shares in a particular company. Or any cold calling company no matter how impressive their name sounds. Be wary of any smooth talker who tells you that you will make rapid profits. Or that wines always go up in price - they don't. If you are approached by a company you have never heard of, check them out.
Companies have to register.
This will give you free basic information about the date of incorporation, registered address, whether the company's accounts and returns are up to date. There is also a list of disqualified directors. You have to pay for details of directors and accounts etc. Investdrinks' Directory lists dubious companies. Some investors have succeeded by threatening to expose these companies' activities.