In 2026, verifying a financial broker requires a three-step "regulatory audit." First, check the FINRA BrokerCheck (in the US) or the FCA Register (in the UK); if the firm or individual isn't listed with a clean "CRD number," walk away immediately. Legitimate brokers must be registered with national securities regulators. Second, verify the website's domain and security; scammers often "clone" legitimate sites with slight misspellings (e.g., "GoldmanSachs-Wealth.net" instead of the official domain). Third, be wary of "unsolicited contact" or "guaranteed returns." In 2026, "pig butchering" scams and fake AI-trading platforms are rampant; a legitimate broker will never ask for payment via crypto or wire transfers to a "personal" account. Finally, check the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) for their disciplinary history. If a broker pressures you to act quickly or refuses to provide a written fee schedule, they are likely illegitimate and part of a fraudulent operation.