SRA issues alert over scam using social media and emails to impersonate a law firm
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has issued a warning about a scam involving emails, WhatsApp messages and a TikTok account impersonating a legitimate law firm and its employee in connection with immigration services.
The alert, published on 9 April 2026, concerns fraudulent activity misusing the name of Turpin & Miller LLP and an employee of the firm, Alexander Satola.
According to the SRA, the scam involves an individual claiming to work for the firm and directing potential clients through social media and messaging platforms. The TikTok account, operating under the username “alexandersatola05”, directs users to an email address and a WhatsApp contact.
A member of the public reported communicating via these channels with someone using the name “Alexandru Imigration”. The individual provided bank details and requested payment for immigration-related services. A payment was subsequently made to a person identified as Andreea-Nicoleta Florea.
The SRA has confirmed that it does not authorise or regulate any solicitor by that name. It also stated that any business conducted through the associated email address, WhatsApp number or social media account is not connected to a regulated legal practice.
The emails linked to the scam were sent from a Gmail account, and the WhatsApp contact used a UK mobile number. The regulator emphasised that these communication channels are not associated with the genuine firm.
The legitimate firm, Turpin & Miller LLP, which is authorised and regulated by the SRA, has confirmed that it has no connection to the fraudulent activity. The firm also clarified that the employee named in the scam is a paralegal and that his official email address uses the firm’s domain.
The SRA has warned that scams involving cloned identities are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often combining multiple communication channels to appear credible. These schemes may involve social media profiles, messaging platforms, and email accounts designed to imitate legitimate legal professionals.
Members of the public are advised to verify the authenticity of any communication by contacting law firms directly using official contact details. The SRA also recommends checking regulatory records and other reliable sources before making payments or sharing personal information.
The regulator continues to monitor such activity and encourages vigilance when dealing with unsolicited legal services, particularly those offered through informal or unverified channels.