Alerts

Warning: Emails misusing the name of Valens Solicitors

18 November 2021

Emails falsely claiming to be from Valens Solicitors containing an attachment labelled 'sending data file'.

What is the scam?

Emails have been sent falsely claiming to be from 'Valens Solicitors' with the subject heading 'sending data file'.

The email seen by the SRA contains an attachment labelled 'sending data file' with a link to access the message.

The emails appeared to be sent from the genuine email address of a trainee solicitor (see below) and misused her name and that of a genuine firm of solicitors (see below).

A concern is that the attachment may contain malware.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Valens Solicitors Limited, trading Valens Solicitors.  Their genuine address is Quorum House, 1st Floor, 36 Metro Centre, Dwight Road, Watford, WD18 9XL and their genuine SRA identification number is 820329.

The genuine firm has confirmed that it employs an individual called Arani Arunan who is a trainee solicitor.   

The genuine firm and Arani Arunan have confirmed that they have no genuine or intended connection to the emails 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.