Article contributed by Ethan Fite
DocuSign, a trusted tool for secure document signing and sharing, has become a target for cybercriminals to launch phishing attacks.
These sophisticated attacks exploit the trust users place in official DocuSign emails, making them particularly dangerous. In this post, we’ll explore how these attacks work, the indicators of compromise (IOCs) to watch for, and actionable steps you can take to protect yourself and your organization.
Attackers often use subject lines designed to create urgency or legitimacy. Examples include:
The sender’s email address may appear official, making it essential to verify other components like the email headers and signing methods. For spoofed emails, key red flags include:
1) Lack of an Alternate Signing Method: Official DocuSign emails always include an alternate method to sign documents. Its absence signals a potential spoof.
2) SPF/DMARC Failures in Headers: If the IP address is not authorized to send emails on behalf of DocuSign, it indicates spoofing. These details are found in the email headers.
3) Suspicious “Reply-To” Addresses: If the reply-to domain doesn’t align with your organization or trusted contacts, exercise caution.
While the official DocuSign domains are legitimate, attackers may embed their malicious infrastructure into emails. Examples include:
These domains often hide behind official-looking DocuSign sender addresses to bypass suspicion.
To safeguard against these attacks, follow these best practices:
1) Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Emails: If you weren’t expecting a DocuSign request, treat the email as suspicious until verified.
2) Check for Alternate Signing Methods: Legitimate DocuSign emails always include this feature in the footer.
3) Inspect Email Headers: Look for SPF and DMARC validation to confirm the sender’s authenticity.
4) Review the Reply-To Field: Ensure it aligns with a trusted domain or contact.
5) When in Doubt, Report the Email: If you suspect an email is malicious, escalate it to your organization’s security team.
DocuSign phishing attacks exploit the platform’s widespread use and reputation for secure document management. By understanding the tactics used in these attacks and staying vigilant, you can protect yourself and your organization from falling victim.
Remember, cybercriminals rely on human error. Being cautious, verifying suspicious emails, and leveraging your security team’s expertise are the best defenses against these threats.
Stay alert, stay informed, and stay safe!
Resources for Further Reading
• How to Spot a Phishing Email
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