Remember the three golden rules when receiving correspondence from a solicitor

High risk scams for members of the public are becoming increasingly more sophisticated.

The Solicitors Regulation Authority helps people make well–informed choices about using legal services, as well as supporting firms like ourselves to keep Wilson Browne Solicitors safe and secure.

In the last three months from September to November 2018 the SRA has published 72 scam alerts an increase from the last three months. There are three types of scams

Scams linked to inheritance or entitlement to money

These scams claim people have inherited millions of pounds or dollars from an unknown relative in a country they have never visited.

The fraudster will use a story to convince a victim of their inheritance. The individual will be asked to send fees up front—to cover expenses, for example—before the money can be released to them. The inheritance does not exist.

Scams linked to emails/phishing/malware

These scams clone a solicitor’s email address within a well known firm, requesting a deposit usually to ensure a “smooth exchange and completion”.

Bogus websites

It is a criminal offence for someone to call themselves a solicitor if they are not on the roll of solicitors.

If you are unsure of any contact by a solicitor remember the three golden rules.

1. check that any unexpected correspondence that you receive is genuine, particularly if it asks you to provide personal information, fund or informs you of new bank details. You can do this by contacting the law firm directly by telephone.

2. contact the SRA on 0370 606 2555 to find out if a solicitor or law firm is regulated and authorised by the SRA. You can also check if someone is a practicing solicitor by searching on the Law Society’s online directory of solicitors here

3. independently verify details, such as checking public records such as the telephone directory and company records, if required.