Due to our dual qualification as English barristers and American attorneys, we have recently experienced a marked increase in calls relating to Internet investment or accommodation scams purportedly from the U.K.  While the approach may differ among the various scams, the common denominator is that an individual’s help is sought to release funds held in a foreign country. Often the scam artist is asking to park the funds in the individual’s American bank account. Sometimes the individual is asked to set up a bank account in an on-line bank or other form of institution. In one instance, the individual was asked to establish a brokerage account. It is promised that funds will be moved from the foreign country into the account and the individual will receive a commission.

In another variant of the scam the individual is told that he or she has inherited a bequest from a relative and funds are being held in a foreign bank. If the individual will pay the inheritance taxes the funds will be released.

The scam artist usually asks for identification information such as drivers license numbers, social security numbers, banking account numbers, etc. In some situations, impressive looking documents are forwarded to provide documentation or credibility. Sometimes the scam artist poses as an accountant, attorney, solicitor or barrister. If you have received such documentation beware it is probably false.

THESE ARE ALL SCAMS. DO NOT GIVE OUT ANY INFORMATION. YOU ARE BEING TARGETED AS A VICTIM OF FRAUD.

If you have received documentation or information from a stranger claiming to be an accountant, attorney, solicitors or barristers call a local professional whom you know and ask them to verify the individuals credentials and professional standing before giving any information.