Unfortunately, scammers target pension pots of all sizes and use sophisticated tactics to try to get you to part with your savings. Both The Pensions Regulator and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) have a lot of helpful information about how to spot and avoid scams and what to do if you think you've been involved in one. You can also read Protect yourself from scammers.

Remember, you can't access your pensions savings before age 55 unless you are in serious ill health . If you try to, you may face a tax bill of more than half the value of your pension. There could also be substantial charges from the fraudulent arrangement. If you're considering applying for serious ill health retirement (SIHR) please contact your HR representative if you're an active employee, or the Pensions Team if you're a deferred member.

From the start of the Coronavirus outbreak, Sally decided to isolate herself at home with her husband, Jack. Jack's heart condition meant Sally was really worried about passing the virus to him. She talked to her manager, who agreed that Sally could work from home.

Sally had so much on her mind – using new systems so she could work remotely, organising online food shops, cancelling plans to see friends – all to make sure that she and Jack were kept healthy, safe and as isolated as possible.

Because of this, Sally wasn't as cautious as she would normally be when she received a text from an unknown number. It said that the Government was allowing people to access their pensions early for a limited time to free up cash to boost the economy once the pandemic was over.

The text looked convincing and so was the website that the link took her to on her smartphone. Sally was tempted to find out more – after all, she and Jack would need a holiday once everyone could travel again. She mentioned it to Jack, who reminded her to check that the company was registered with the FCA.

It wasn't, so Sally reported the company to the FCA and blocked their number. Luckily, Sally's retirement income was still safe.

Don't drop your guard: make sure your pension and any other savings are safe.