Alerts
Warning: WhatsApp messages misusing the name of Penny Angell
21 August 2025
WhatsApp messages have been sent misusing the name of Penny Angell.
What is the scam?
The SRA has been notified that WhatsApp messages have been sent purporting to be from a genuine solicitor (see below) in relation to a Non-Disclosure Agreement and reviewing transaction documents.
The messages sent also misuse the genuine solicitor's picture as profile picture on the WhatsApp messaging platform.
Is there a genuine firm or person?
The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine solicitor called Penelope Angell.
The genuine solicitor has confirmed she has no connection to the WhatsApp messages referred to above.
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.
More information
Update 21 August 2025
The SRA has been notified that further WhatsApp messages have been sent misusing the name of Penelope Angell. The messages were sent to a member of the public and the recipient was advised to call a number (see below) in relation to a business matter.
The WhatsApp messages were sent from the number ‘+44 7349839742’.
Any business or transaction through the above phone number is not undertaken by a firm or individual authorised and regulated by the SRA.
The genuine solicitor Penelope Angell (see details above) has confirmed she has no connection to the WhatsApp messages referred to above.
Update 12 August 2025
The SRA has seen further WhatsApp messages that have been sent misusing the name of Penny Angell. The messages seen by the SRA were sent to a member of the public and the sender of the messages purported to be represented by Penny Angell in relation a Non-Disclosure Agreement and a 'foreign acquisition'. The WhatsApp messages were sent from the number + 1 502 780 2835.
Any business or transaction through the above phone number is not undertaken by a firm or individual authorised and regulated by the SRA.
The genuine solicitor Penny Angell (see details above) has confirmed she has no connection to the WhatsApp messages referred to above.