Scams and fraudulent activity
Email scams and fraudulent communications are increasing, with scammers using advanced tactics to impersonate reputable organisations, including law firms. These communications can be highly convincing, using official logos, familiar language, and email addresses similar to those of legitimate companies.
Examples include impersonating Allens using the firm's logo and branding to attempt to carry out scams by sending fraudulent emails. These emails may include:
- fake copyright and IP infringement notices;
- urgent requests to respond with personal details or click on virus-carrying attachments;
- unsolicited communications designed to prompt immediate action; or
- requests for urgent payment to new or changed bank account details.
We take active steps to stop and prevent the misuse of the Allens brand in such impersonation scams. We encourage you to stay vigilant and take steps to protect yourself from these scams.
Steps to help you identify scam emails
Check the sender’s email address
Scammers often use addresses that look similar to legitimate ones but have slight differences, such as extra characters or misspelled words. They may also send emails using common email domains (such as '@gmail.com'). Genuine emails from Allens only use the domain '@allens.com.au'.
Spoofed emails are a common tactic used by scammers, where the displayed sender’s name or email address appears legitimate but the email address—often hidden from immediate view—is different and untrustworthy. Always check the full email address carefully.
Watch out for urgent or threatening language
Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency or fear to prompt quick action.
Look for poor grammar and formatting
Legitimate communications from our firm are professionally formatted and free from typographical errors or unusual language.
Be alert for unusual requests regarding payments
Allens has consistent invoicing and payment protocols and is not in the practice of regularly changing bank account details.
What to do if you receive a suspicious email
Do not respond or engage
Avoid engaging with the sender or clicking on any links or attachments.
Verify the communication
If you receive an unexpected notice claiming to be from us, contact us directly through our official website or phone number to verify its legitimacy.
Report it
Let us know about any suspicious communications using the contact us form on our website. Your reports help us take action against these scams.
You can find further details on scams and how to safeguard yourself at: https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/