Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp messages from 'PM Firm Law' claiming to be a law firm

5 January 2024

WhatsApp messages have been sent from 'PM Firm Law' claiming to be a law firm in relation to recovery of outstanding debt.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been advised that WhatsApp messages have been sent from an individual called 'Patrick Mitchell' claiming to be an 'Attorney and Solicitor' from 'PM Firm Law' in relation to the recovery of an outstanding debt.

The messages were sent using a number of '+44 7548 304899' and provides an email address of 'lawfirmpatrick.mitchell@yahoo.com'.

The SRA does not authorise or regulate a firm of solicitors called 'PM Firm Law'.

The messages misuse the name of genuine solicitors (see below)

Any business or transaction through 'PM Firm Law' or the email and telephone number above 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 regulate a couple of genuine solicitors called Patrick Mitchell.

The SRA dos does not authorise or regulate an individual named Patrick Mitchel of 'PM Firm Law’ and the SRA is not aware that any of the genuine solicitors called Patrick Mitchell have any connection to 'PM Firm Law’ and the alert above.

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.