Society warns of new email scam targeting solicitors

A warning of a new email scam targeting Scottish law firms has been issued by the Law Society of Scotland.

Fraudsters have made contact with solicitors, initially with enquiries for assistance with a property purchase or transfer of ownership. When the solicitor replies seeking more information, the scam emails direct them to a "secure" Adobe Acrobat document via a web link provided.

This link reportedly takes the user to a website made to look like a secure cloud store, but which does not carry the standard SSL security protection, and asks for an email address and password. As there is no password provided in the email, it is suspected that the scammers hope that an individual would enter their office email address and password, allowing the scammers to access the user’s emails.

The Society is interested in being made aware of email scams (and other similar issues) sent to members so it can alert the profession: contact fincomp@lawscot.org.uk

Suspected fraud and cybercrime can be reported to the police via ActionFraud on 0300 123 2040 or by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk/