Alerts

Warning: Email misusing the name of Russell-Cooke LLP

22 January 2025

An email has been sent misusing the name of Russell-Cooke LLP in relation to the supposed recovery of investment funds.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that an email has been sent from an individual called 'Johanna Zimmermann' falsely claiming to be an 'Attorney' at a genuine firm of solicitors in relation to the supposed recovery of investment funds.

The email seen by the SRA is in German and was sent using the email address of 'johanna.zimmermann@russelcooke.co.uk'.

The SRA has also been informed that a website at 'www.russelcooke.co.uk' was falsely operating and misusing the name of the genuine firm and understand that the website has now been suspended.

Any business or transaction through 'Johanna Zimmermann' or the email address of 'johanna.zimmermann@russelcooke.co.uk' is not undertaken by an individual or firm of solicitors authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Russell-Cooke LLP. The genuine firm uses the email domain @russell-cooke.co.uk.

The genuine firm Russell-Cooke LLP has confirmed that it does not have any connection to the email referred to in the above alert and does not employ an individual called 'Johanna Zimmermann'.

What should I do?

When a firm's or individual's identity has been copied exactly (or cloned), due diligence is necessary. If you receive correspondence claiming to be from the above firm(s) or individual(s), or information of a similar nature to that described, you should conduct your own due diligence by checking the authenticity of the correspondence by contacting the law firm directly by reliable and established means. You can contact the SRA to find out if individuals or firms are regulated and authorised by the SRA and verify an individual's or firm's practising details. Other verification methods, such as checking public records (e.g. telephone directories and company records) may be required in other circumstances.