The SRA warns the public that scam emails misuse a solicitor’s name and SRA ID number
The Solicitors Regulation Authority has issued a warning after emails were sent misusing the name and SRA ID number of a genuine solicitor in connection with cryptocurrency transactions and investments.
The alert, dated 13 January 2026, relates to correspondence sent to a member of the public that used the identity details of a real solicitor. The SRA said the emails referred to Anti Money Laundering checks linked to an investment transaction involving the purchase and or transfer of cryptocurrency, described as Bitcoin.
According to the regulator, the emails also mentioned the role of a “Second Distributor” and referred to “deposition expenses and related fees”. The messages further described “the total commission requested for the circulation of Anti Money Laundering” to enable the production and subsequent circulation of an AML report.
The SRA said it had been advised that the emails were sent from the address “gloria.lawson@solicitorscheck.com”. The correspondence also provided the address “2 Eastbourne Ter, London, W2 6LG”.
The regulator stated that any business or transaction conducted through the contact details contained in the emails is not undertaken by a firm or individual authorised and regulated by the SRA.
The SRA confirmed that it does authorise and regulate a genuine solicitor named Gloria Lawson, whose SRA ID number is 395309. The regulator said the genuine solicitor has confirmed she has no connection to the emails referenced in the alert.
The SRA also noted that it authorises and regulates a number of other law firms with offices at 2 Eastbourne Terrace and related addresses, but said none are believed to be connected with the emails described.
In its guidance to the public, the SRA said that where a firm’s or individual’s identity has been copied exactly, or cloned, due diligence is necessary. It advised anyone who receives correspondence claiming to be from the solicitor or firm, or which contains similar content to that described in the warning, to check the authenticity of the communication by contacting the law firm directly through reliable and established means.
The regulator said members of the public can contact the SRA to confirm whether individuals or firms are authorised and regulated, and to verify practising details. It added that other verification steps may be needed in some circumstances, including checking public records such as telephone directories and company records.
The SRA warning forms part of its wider public information work aimed at helping consumers identify and avoid scams where regulated legal identities are misused.