Dealing with loan sharks

The best advice for dealing with loan sharks is don't. They're unlicensed moneylenders who charge very high interest rates and sometimes use threats and violence to frighten people who can't pay back their loan.

Loan sharks

Loan sharks often target families on low incomes or those who find themselves in difficult times.

Licensed moneylenders are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and must follow their codes of practice.

Loan sharks are not licensed and operate outside the law.

If you've borrowed from a loan shark

If you've borrowed from a loan shark you are under no legal obligation to repay the debt. If a lender isn't licensed by the FCA then they have no legal right to recover the debt.

Search the Financial Services Register

Loan sharks sometimes frighten people by saying they'll be prosecuted and even sent to prison if they don't pay up. This can't happen, not repaying a loan from an unlicensed lender isn't a crime.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has a team of detectives who specialise in illegal money lending. They offer practical support and take action against illegal lenders.

Find out more information and how to contact the Illegal Money Lending team.

Other ways of borrowing money

There are different types of loans available. If you need a loan, always go to a licensed lender.

Learn more about loans and borrowing money.

Help and advice on borrowing

Always get free, independent help before you pay a commercial service. Many organisations offer this on money matters, including:

What to do next

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Dealing with loan sharks

Loan sharks

If you've borrowed from a loan shark

Other ways of borrowing money

Help and advice on borrowing

More useful links

Help improve this page - send your feedback

What to do next

Carer's Allowance

Discretionary support / Short-term benefit advance

Disability Living Allowance

Employment and Support Allowance

Jobseeker’s Allowance

Personal Independence Payment

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Select a language

Dealing with loan sharks

Loan sharks

If you've borrowed from a loan shark

Other ways of borrowing money

Help and advice on borrowing

More useful links

Help improve this page - send your feedback

Messages

What to do next

Carer's Allowance

Discretionary support / Short-term benefit advance

Disability Living Allowance

Employment and Support Allowance

Jobseeker’s Allowance

Personal Independence Payment