Alerts

Warning: Emails have been sent misusing the name of Willans LLP

7 August 2023

Emails have been sent misusing the name of Willans LLP

What is the scam?

Emails have been sent misusing the name of Willans LLP in relation to conveyancing transactions.

The email was sent using the domain '@willlans.co.uk' (with three L's). The email provided the recipient with alternative banking details and requested the payment of funds.

The emails misuse the details of a genuine firm of solicitors (see below) and its employee.

Any business or transaction through the email address '@willlans.co.uk' is not undertaken by a solicitors' practice or individual authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Willans LLP. The genuine firm uses emails with the domain '@Willans.co.uk' (two L's).

The genuine firm of Willans LLP has confirmed it does not have any connection to the email using the domain '@willlans.co.uk' (with three L's).

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.