Businesses targeted by scam emails offering false trademark protection services
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has issued a warning about scam emails targeting businesses by misusing the identity of a genuine solicitor in connection with trademark and intellectual property services.
The alert, published on 10 April 2026, relates to emails sent to businesses claiming that a third party is seeking to register their company name and logo. The correspondence urges recipients to take immediate action to secure trademark protection, offering assistance with the process.
According to the SRA, the emails misuse the name and SRA number of Ralph Charles Thomas, a genuine solicitor. The communications appear to originate from a firm named “Ralph Charles Thomas Legal” and include references to a website and email address designed to resemble a legitimate legal practice.
The regulator has confirmed that it does not authorise or regulate any firm operating under that name. It has also stated that any business conducted through the email address, website or firm name referenced in the communications is not associated with an authorised legal practice.
The SRA indicated that the genuine solicitor has no connection to the emails. The use of his name and professional details forms part of a broader tactic commonly known as identity cloning, where fraudsters impersonate legitimate individuals or firms to gain credibility.
The scam involves contacting businesses with claims that another party is attempting to secure exclusive rights over their branding. Recipients are encouraged to act quickly and engage the sender’s services to register trademarks, potentially leading to financial loss.
The SRA has advised businesses to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited communications of this nature. It recommends verifying the authenticity of any legal correspondence by contacting the solicitor or firm directly using independently sourced contact details.
Further checks may include confirming whether a solicitor or firm is authorised through official regulatory records and reviewing publicly available information such as company listings.
The warning forms part of ongoing efforts by the SRA to highlight risks associated with fraudulent communications in the legal sector. The regulator continues to encourage vigilance, particularly in cases where urgent action is requested or payment is sought.
No further details regarding the scale of the scam or any financial losses have been disclosed.