Alerts

Warning: Correspondence from 'Dl Ilies Matei' using the address of a genuine firm of solicitors

20 September 2022

A member of the public received correspondence from 'Dl Ilies Matei' regarding a visa application, using the address of a genuine solicitors firm.

What is the scam?

A member of the public has received WhatsApp messages from an individual using the name 'Dl Ilies Matei', who we understand claimed to be a lawyer in relation to a visa application. The recipient was asked to make upfront payments and was provided with the same contact address as a genuine firm of solicitors that specialises in immigration matters (see below).

The messages were sent using a number '+44 7576 973388'.

The SRA does not authorise and regulate a solicitor called 'Dl Ilies Matei'.

Any business or transaction through 'Dl Ilies Matei' or the number '+44 7576 973388' is not undertaken by a solicitor or solicitor's practice authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Cross Border Legal Limited Solicitors. The firm's address is West Walk House, 99 Princess Road East, Leicester LE1 7LF. The firm's genuine telephone number is 0116 380 0744.

The genuine firm, Cross Border Legal Limited Solicitors, has confirmed that they do not have any genuine connection to the messages 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.