Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp messages have been sent misusing the name of Piers Francis Larbey

12 August 2024

WhatsApp messages have been sent claiming to be from Piers Francis Larbey.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that WhatsApp messages have been sent to a member of the public falsely claiming to be from a genuine solicitor (see below).

The WhatsApp messages were sent from the telephone number of '+33 7 53 25 83 36'.

Any business or transaction through the telephone number '+33 7 53 25 83 36' 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 solicitor called Piers Francis Larbey.

Piers Francis Larbey has confirmed that he does not have any connection to the WhatsApp 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.