Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp profile misusing the names of Emma de Ronde and Norton Rose Fulbright LLP

13 October 2026

WhatsApp messages have been sent from a profile misusing the name 'Emma de Ronde' and purporting to be from Norton Rose Fulbright LLP

What is the scam?

The SRA has been notified that a WhatsApp profile has been created misusing the name of a genuine solicitor (see details below) and the details of a genuine firm of solicitors (see details below.)

The WhatsApp profile sent messages asking for funds to be transferred following a supposed merger and acquisition transaction.

The WhatsApp messages were sent from the contact number '+44 7588 506 943'.

Any business or transactions through the above WhatsApp profile or contact 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 Norton Rose Fulbright LLP Solicitors (SRA ID: 466517). The genuine firm's contact number is 02072836000.

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine solicitor named Emma de Ronde (SRA ID: 357983). Emma de Ronde is a solicitor with Norton Rose Fulbright LLP Solicitors.

Norton Rose Fulbright LLP Solicitors has confirmed that neither they nor Emma de Ronde have any connection to the WhatsApp messages referred to in the alert above. Norton Rose Fulbright LLP Solicitors also confirmed that it does not solicit business through WhatsApp or use it for business purposes.

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.