Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp messages misusing the name of Oliver Goldman of Wallace LLP

21 August 2025

WhatsApp messages have been sent misusing the name of Oliver Goldman of Wallace LLP.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been notified that WhatsApp messages have been sent purporting to be from a genuine solicitor (see below) in relation to the release of an individual from custody. The SRA understands the recipient of the messages was advised to make a payment to a third party account.

The WhatsApp messages were sent from the telephone number of '+1(580)307 2494'.

Any business or transaction through the telephone number '+1(580)307 2494' 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 solicitor called Oliver Goldman who is employed at Wallace LLP.

The genuine solicitor Oliver Goldman has confirmed that he has no connection to the WhatsApp messages referred to above.

The SRA also authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Wallace LLP. Their genuine telephone number is 020 7636 4422.

The genuine firm Wallace LLP has confirmed that it does not have any connection to the WhatsApp messages 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.