Alerts

Warning: Email misusing the name of Wedlake Bell LLP

29 October 2024

An email has been sent misusing the name of Wedlake Bell LLP in relation to supposed unpaid invoices.

What is the scam?

An email has been sent falsely claiming to be from a genuine firm of solicitors (see below) in relation to supposed unpaid invoices for services.

The email was sent from an email address of 'accounts@wedlakebell.sbs'. The subject states an invoice is enclosed.

The concern is that any attachment may contain malware.

Any business or transaction through the email address 'accounts@wedlakebell.sbs' is not undertaken by a firm or individual authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a firm of solicitors called Wedlake Bell LLP. The email domain is '@wedlakebell.com'.

The genuine Wedlake Bell LLP have confirmed that they have no connection to the email referred to in the above alert.

What should I do?

When a firm's or individual's identity has been copied exactly (or cloned), due diligence is necessary. If you receive correspondence claiming to be from the above firm(s) or individual(s), or information of a similar nature to that described, you should conduct your own due diligence by checking the authenticity of the correspondence by contacting the law firm directly by reliable and established means. You can contact the SRA to find out if individuals or firms are regulated and authorised by the SRA and verify an individual's or firm's practising details. Other verification methods, such as checking public records (e.g. telephone directories and company records) may be required in other circumstances.