A Warwick University study suggests the UK Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) may be inflating its uphold rate, misleading consumers about their success chances. Researchers found that about a third of cases classified as “upheld” actually provided minimal compensation, such as £50–£300 for distress, despite larger claims. FOS defends its process, refuting the study's findings and emphasising its role in providing fair resolutions. The study arises amid a 70% surge in consumer complaints, with high cases in credit card and motor finance sectors, fuelled by a rise in scams and lending issues.