Alerts

Warning: Emails and Whatsapp messages misusing the name of Dante Benedettini

29 February 2024

Emails and Whatsapp messages have been sent misusing the name of Dante Benedettini in relation to providing legal assistance to victims of online fraud.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that a member of the public has received emails and Whatsapp messages from 'Dante Michael Benedettini' in relation to providing legal assistance to victims of online fraud.

The emails misuse the name and SRA ID of a genuine solicitor (see below).

The emails were sent using an email address of 'dante.b@solicitorsservices.com'.

The Whatsapp messages were sent from the telephone number '+44 7882 396 420'.

Any business or transaction through 'dante.b@solicitorsservices.com' 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 solicitor called Dante Benedettini. His SRA ID is 493404.

It is believed the genuine Dante Benedettini does not have any connection to the emails or 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.