Alerts

Warning: Emails misusing the name of Paul Michael Rogers of Benchmark Solicitors LLP

11 November 2021

Emails falsely claiming to be from Benchmark Solicitors LLP containing an attachment labelled 'Benchmark Solicitors-proposal'

What is the scam?

Emails have been sent falsely claiming to be from Paul Michael Rogers of Benchmark Solicitors LLP with the subject heading 'Paul Rogers sent you a message'.

The email seen by the SRA contains an attachment labelled 'Benchmark Solicitors-proposal' with a link to access the message.

The emails were sent appearing to be from the genuine email address of a solicitor (see below) and misused his name and that of the genuine firm of solicitors. A concern is that the attachment may contain malware.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine solicitor called Paul Michael Rogers. His genuine SRA number is 452718. Mr Rogers is a member of the genuine firm of solicitors called Benchmark Solicitors Llp whose genuine SRA number is 567492.

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.