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The emails appear to come from somebody abroad who wants a quote from the solicitor to act in a transaction, for example, to sell a property or act in a probate.  Examples of these emails are set out below.  It is noted that these emails often contain many spelling and grammatical errors, contain no phone numbers or address for the person sending it and you often cannot see who the email has been sent to (as if it was done by multiple bcc’s). These indicators should raise concerns as to the veracity of the email.  Where such concerns arise the profession are advised to attempt to contact the purported sender by a secure means, for example, phonecall or post, before opening on any attachments or clicking on any links.

These emails can be used by the “client”/fraudster in a number of ways. Some of the emails contain an attachment, such as a contract, which when opened would install malware onto the computer, giving the fraudster access to the practice’s system. 

Also, the emails are often used to launder money.  If the solicitor agrees to act for the “client” money will be sent to the solicitor’s client account. The solicitor will then receive instructions on where to send the money, resulting in it being “laundered” through the client account.

Examples of emails

Example 1

“I have a property i want to sell and looking to buy another one i have interest in and would like to know what your usual fees are. we are about to Finalize the offer and mortgage, Exchange contracts,Completion and final steps. Please advise also if you would be willing to have a look at contract.

John R. Bentley II

President

B&L Builders, Inc.”

Example 2

“Hi there,

I have a buyer wanting to buy our apartment. There are no agents involved. I need you to handle the purchase from here - getting to her (through her lawyer) to sign the Sales and Purchase Agreement, Payment to our bank to release the mortgage, and remit the net proceeds to us. How much is your fee ? How long does it take to complete the whole process? I need to update my tenant so that he can start looking for another place.

Also my father passed away early last year leaving a mortgage-free 4500 sq ft maisonette to me and my brother 50:50. Having continues to reside at the property, there was a condition in his will saying the premises could not be sold for three years following his death so he could remain there for a while.i intend to remain in the premises buying his share. We have discussed a transfer of equity and the conventional way to buy his half?. I need you to handle the purchase from here - getting to him to sign the Sales and Purchase Agreement. How much is your fee ? How long does it take to complete the whole process? I need to update as i will be coming back to the UK in the next two week, would forward all relevant documents if your instrested in aiding me and schedule an in person meeting at the residence.

Kind regards,

Alvin Kuparr.”