Be Aware of Scams Affecting Solicitors, Businesses and Their Clients

The Law Society of NSW has recently warned of an increasing number of scams affecting solicitors, businesses, and their clients.

NSW Credit Law would like to ensure that all its clients are aware of possible scams and have some knowledge of how to identify and protect themselves against such scams.

Scams Affecting Solicitors and Their Clients

In the contemporary digital age, the internet has become a breeding ground for scams and fraud. No profession is immune to this menace, not even solicitors and their clients. This article aims to shed light on the various scams that have been affecting solicitors and their clients, and how to identify and avoid them.

1. Email Scams

Email scams are one of the most common forms of fraud affecting solicitors and their clients. Scammers send deceitful emails pretending to be the solicitor or client in an attempt to redirect funds. Often, these emails can look incredibly authentic, complete with a cloned email address and professional language. It is important to double-check the authenticity of any emails requesting financial transactions.

2. Identity Theft

Identity theft is another scam affecting solicitors and their clients. Fraudsters often steal personal information such as names, addresses, and identity information to impersonate solicitors or clients. They use this stolen identity to request financial transfers or personal information from unknowing victims.

3. Phishing Attacks

Phishing scams typically involve fake emails or websites that appear legitimate but are designed to steal sensitive information. Solicitors and their clients may receive an email purportedly from a bank or a legal institution asking them to update their details or confirm their identity by clicking on a link. These links often lead to fake websites set up to collect sensitive information.

4. Invoice Scams

In invoice scams, fraudsters intercept invoices and change the payment details, causing funds to be redirected to the scammer’s account instead of the intended recipient. This type of scam can be particularly damaging, as it often involves large amounts of money.

5. Investment Scams

Investment scams involve solicitors or clients being persuaded to invest in fraudulent schemes or companies. These scams often promise high returns with minor risk and may pressure victims to invest quickly to avoid missing out.

Steps to Avoid Scams

1. Stay Informed: Knowledge is power. Staying informed about the latest scam tactics can help you and your client identify and avoid potential scams.

2. Secure Communication: Always double-check email addresses and verify the authenticity of any requests for money or personal information.

3. Regularly Update Your Security Measures: Update your computer’s antivirus software and ensure that your network is secure.

4. Verification: Always verify bank details and payment instructions directly with the party involved, using a trusted contact method.

5. Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers: Be cautious of unsolicited investment opportunities, especially those that promise high returns with minimal risk.

Scams affecting solicitors, businesses and their clients are increasingly prevalent, but by staying informed and taking preventive measures, it is possible to mitigate the risk and protect your business and clients from these insidious threats. Remember, vigilance and awareness are your best defences against scams.
The main scams affecting solicitors and their clients are email scams.
Email Scams

Identifying and avoiding email scams can be challenging due to their sophisticated nature, but there are several measures solicitors, business owners and their clients can take:

1. Check the Email Address: Scammers often use email addresses that appear similar to legitimate ones. However, there may be slight alterations such as an extra letter or number. Always carefully check the sender’s email address to ensure it matches the one you have on file.

2. Scrutinize the Email Content: Scam emails often have poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or an urgent tone pressuring the recipient to act quickly. Such anomalies can be a red flag.

3. Verification: If an email requests a financial transaction or sensitive information, verify its legitimacy by contacting the supposed sender directly through a separate, trusted means of communication. Do not use any contact information provided in the suspicious email.

4. Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Scam emails often contain links that direct the user to a fraudulent website. Hover over the link to see the actual URL without clicking on it. If it looks suspicious, do not click on it.

5. Use Email Filters: Many email providers offer filters that can help detect and block spam and scam emails.

6. Install Security Software: Ensure you have up-to-date antivirus or security software installed. These can help detect and block malicious content.

7. Educate and Train: Business owners should educate their clients about the potential risks of email scams and how to identify them. Regular training sessions can be a proactive measure to ensure everyone is prepared.

By implementing these measures, solicitors, business owners and their clients can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to email scams.
If you ever have any doubts about email communications with NSW Credit Law, please contact the writer to confirm the legitimacy of the communications.

Disclaimer: When researching and drafting this article we may use an AI advanced language model amongst other sources. It is intended for general informational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided, we cannot guarantee its completeness, timeliness, or appropriateness for any particular purpose. Usage of this information is at the reader’s own risk. We are not liable for any errors, omissions, or results that may be obtained from the use of this information. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this article. For legal advice please contact Paul Thorndike on 0429 008 247 or at paulthorndike@nswcreditlaw.com.au