Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp call misusing the name of Harper James Limited

30 December 2022

A WhatsApp call has been made to a member of the public claiming to be from Abigail Watson of Harper James Limited.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been advised that a WhatsApp call has been made to a member of the public claiming to be from a genuine solicitor of a genuine firm (see below). The WhatsApp call was made from the telephone numbers '+44 7539 237562' and '+1 (507) 946-1821'.

Any business or transaction through the telephone numbers '+44 7539 237562' and '+1 (507) 946-1821' is not undertaken by a firm 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 Harper James Limited. The genuine telephone number for the firm is 0800 689 1700. The genuine firm of Harper James Limited employs a solicitor called Abigail Watson.

The genuine firm Harper James Limited and Abigail Watson have confirmed they do not have any connection to the WhatsApp call 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.