Alerts

Warning: Emails and Whatsapp messages misusing the name of Harper James Solicitors

20 February 2024

Emails and Whatsapp messages have been sent misusing the name of Harper James Solicitors.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been advised that emails and Whatsapp messages have been sent to a member of the public falsely claiming to be from 'Harper James' of Harper James Solicitors.

The correspondence was in relation to the recovery of money lost due to a cryptocurrency scam.

The emails were sent from 'harperjamesplatform@gmail.com'; and the Whatsapp messages were sent from the telephone number +1-937-793-0531.

The emails and Whatsapp messages misused the name and website of a genuine firm of solicitors (see below).

Any business or transaction through the email address of 'harperjamesplatform@gmail.com' and the telephone number +1-937-793-0531 is not undertaken by a firm or individual authorised and regulated by the SRA.

The SRA does not authorise and regulate an individual called 'Harper James'.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Harper James Solicitors, that is also known as Harper James. Their telephone number is 0808 164 4031 and their email address is enquiries@harperjames.co.uk.

The genuine firm Harper James Solicitors has confirmed that it does not have any genuine and intended connection to the emails and 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.