Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp messages have been sent misusing the name of Ghalya Rashid Ali, a solicitor at Clyde & Co

17 September 2024

WhatsApp messages have been sent misusing the name of Ghalya Rashid Ali, a solicitor at Clyde & Co, in relation to provision of legal services for the victims of fraud and financial scams.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that a member of the public has received WhatsApp messages from an individual going by the name of Ghalya Rashid Ali claiming to be an 'Attorney' in relation provision of legal services for the victims of fraud and financial scams. The recipient was provided with a passport identity document and Court documents which are not believed to be legitimate.

The WhatsApp messages misused the name of a genuine solicitor (see below).

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a solicitor called Ghalya Rashid Ali, SRA ID 642413. Ghalya Rashid Ali is a solicitor at the genuine firm, Clyde & Co, SRA ID 460690.

The genuine solicitor, Ghalya Rashid Ali, and the genuine firm, Clyde & Co, have confirmed that they do 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.