Alerts

Warning: Emails misusing the names of Bolt Burdon LLP and Bolt Burdon Kemp LLP

11 December 2024

Emails have been sent misusing the names of Bolt Burdon LLP and Bolt Burdon Kemp LLP regarding alleged copyright infringement.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that emails have been sent misusing the names of two genuine firms of solicitors (see below), in relation to alleged copyright infringement.

Emails have been sent under email addresses which are not connected to a genuine firm of solicitors. These have been sent to various companies and request the immediate removal of infringing content from their platform. A document titled 'Copyright Violation Evidence.pdf' was attached to these emails. A concern is the PDF attachment may contain malware.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Bolt Burdon LLP. Emails from this firm use the domain '@boltburdon.co.uk'.

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Bolt Burdon Kemp LLP. Emails from this firm use the domain '@boltburdonkemp.co.uk'.

The genuine firms of Bolt Burdon LLP and Bolt Burdon Kemp LLP have confirmed they have no connection to the 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.