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This case is available on Bailii and I would say is compulsory reading for every conveyancer (especially those of the "tick box checklist mentality") as a warning to those who don't look up from the "process" to think about "what is really going on". I think there are real questions now about what a buyer's solicitor is entitled to rely on in terms of verification by the seller's solicitor and one can envisage the following pre-contract enquiries:-
1. Have you conducted ID checks against the seller(s) to satisfy the AML requirements on a risk-based approach including sight of original documents?
2. Have you written to the Sellers at the address(es) on the Land Registry record?
3. Have you had the Sellers' identity independently verified electronically with a reputable electronic search provider with a "pass" or similar?
4. Please confirm you will notify us prior to completion if you receive instructions to remit net purchase monies outside the jurisdiction

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