Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp messages from 'Marco' purportedly of 'Latham & Watkins'

23 October 2025

WhatsApp messages have been sent to a member of the public from a 'Marco' purportedly of 'Latham & Watkins'.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that a member of the public has been contacted via WhatsApp by an individual claiming to be a lawyer at a genuine firm. The SRA has been advised that the messages were sent using the telephone number +44 7748 922914 and that an email address of 'fernandogoldaracena90@gmail.com' was also given.

Any business or transaction through the above email address or telephone number, is not undertaken by a firm or solicitor authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Latham & Watkins (London) LLP (SRA number 203820) and a genuine solicitor called Marco Zacchino.

Latham & Watkins (London) LLP (SRA ID 203820) has confirmed that neither the firm nor their employee, the genuine solicitor has any connection to the above matter.

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.