Alerts

Warning: Emails misusing the name of Ashworths Solicitors LLP

21 March 2024

Emails have been sent falsely claiming to be from Ashworths Solicitors LLP in relation to conveyancing matters.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that emails have been sent misusing the name of Ashworths Solicitors LLP.

The emails were sent from the domains '@ashwortths.co.uk' and '@ashvvorths.co.uk'.  The domain '@ashvorths.co.uk' has also been created, but there is no indication that this has been used. The emails ask the recipients to transfer funds in relation to conveyancing matters to a bank account which is not associated with the genuine firm.

Any business or transactions through the domains '@ashwortths.co.uk', '@ashvvorths.co.uk' and '@ashvorths.co.uk' is not undertaken by an individual or firm of solicitors authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Ashworths Solicitors LLP. The genuine firm's email domain ends in ‘@ashworths.co.uk' (please note there is only one 't').

The genuine firm has confirmed that it does not have any genuine and intended connection to the emails referred to above.

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.