Alerts

Warning: Email misusing the name of Slater Heelis

27 September 2023

Email sent from an individual falsely claiming to be 'Mark Safar' from Slater Heelis, in relation to supposedly transferring a large sum of money.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been advised that a member of the public received an email requesting that they provide bank details and personal data, in relation to the supposed transfer or release of a large 'approved fund'. 

We understand that the email was sent using the email address 'am5040080@gmail.com' and a telephone number of '+440896454326' was provided.

The email claimed to be sent by someone using the name 'Mark Safar', and falsely misused the name of Slater Heelis (see below for details of the genuine firm).

The SRA does not authorise or regulate an individual called 'Mark Safar'.

Any business or transaction through the above telephone number of '+440896454326' or the email address 'am5040080@gmail.com' are 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 called Slater Heelis Limited, which trades as Slater Heelis.  The genuine contact number for Slater Heelis Limited is 0161 969 3131.

The genuine firm of Slater Heelis Limited has confirmed it does not have a genuine connection to the telephone number or email address 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.