Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp message misusing the names of Hannah Ellen Ford and Stevens & Bolton LLP

11 August 2026

A WhatsApp message has been sent misusing the names of Hannah Ellen Ford and Stevens & Bolton LLP.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that a member of the public has received a WhatsApp message from a 'Hannah' of Stevens & Bolton LLP in relation to an alleged fraud case. The message misuses the names of a genuine solicitor and a genuine firm (see details below).

The WhatsApp message asks the recipient to respond within 48 hours to arrange a discussion. The WhatsApp message was sent from the telephone number '+44 7536 666050'.

Any business or transaction through the above telephone number 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 firm of solicitors called Stevens & Bolton LLP (SRA number 401245). The genuine firm's telephone number is 01483 302264.

The SRA also authorises and regulates a genuine solicitor called Hannah Ellen Ford, whose SRA number is 336226 and who is a Partner at the genuine firm Stevens & Bolton LLP.

The genuine firm Stevens & Bolton LLP and the genuine solicitor Hannah Ellen Ford have confirmed that they have no connection to the matter 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.