H M Land Registry has sent out a warning that some of their customers have recently been receiving fake or “phishing” emails claiming to be requisitions or replies to requisitions.

The Land Registry says that the bogus emails often have an attachment containing a computer virus which, if opened, can steal sensitive data stored on the users computer. To avoid this, users are advised to check the sender address. All genuine requisition emails come from a Land Registry office email ending in .gov.uk, eg Durham.Office@landregistry.gsi.gov.uk whereas the phishing emails are sent from other addresses such as Durham.OfficeMail [mailto:nick@officemaile.com]

The Land Registry go on to advise that if you are unsure whether the email is genuine, then do not:

• follow any links
• open any attachments
• disclose any personal details, or
• respond to it.

What to do next

Forward the email to phishing@landregistry.gsi.gov.uk and then delete it. HMLR don’t respond to any emails forwarded to this address, but will examine them carefully.

If you’re using your personal computer and have opened the email or attachment, you should run your anti-virus software. If you receive the email at work, tell your IT administrator.