Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp messages misusing the name of Linklaters LLP and a registered foreign lawyer and partner from Linklaters LLP

7 November 2025

WhatsApp messages and emails have been sent misusing the name Linklaters LLP and a partner from Linklaters LLP.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that WhatsApp messages have been sent to individuals pretending to be CEOs of parent companies. We are informed that these messages are instructing them to follow WhatsApp instructions about an acquisition from the parent company's Linklaters partner.

These individuals have also received emails from the same person using the domain '@linklaters-paris.com' and misusing the name of the genuine partner from a genuine firm of solicitors (see below).

Any business or transaction through the above email domain is not undertaken by a firm or solicitor authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a firm of solicitors called Linklaters LLP. The email domain for the firm is '@linklaters.com'.

The genuine firm of Linklaters LLP has confirmed it does not have any connection to the WhatsApp messages or emails 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.