Business Email Compromise (BEC) scams are becoming a major threat to organisations of all sizes, including many right here in Staffordshire. At Commercial Networks, we understand how devastating these attacks can be – not just financially, but reputationally. In this post, we explore how BEC scams work, the role of email spoofing protection, and how to spot and stop BEC phishing scams before they impact your business.
What Is Business Email Compromise (BEC)?
BEC is a form of cybercrime where attackers impersonate senior executives or trusted partners via email to trick employees into transferring funds or sharing sensitive data. These scams often target those involved in payment processing, like finance teams, making businesses in Staffordshire especially vulnerable.
Attackers often harvest personal and business information from LinkedIn or company websites. They then craft emails that look authentic, asking for urgent, confidential payments or data access. The FBI reported losses of over $2.4 billion in 2021 due to BEC – proof of the threat’s scale.
How BEC Scams Unfold
- Scammers research your business and employees.
- They impersonate someone trusted, like a director or supplier.
- Emails request urgent BACS payments or transfers.
- Victims often act before verifying the request.
These attacks may also involve fake domains or email addresses that look nearly identical to your official ones.
Recognising BEC Phishing Scams
BEC phishing scams can be difficult to spot. Watch for:
- Unexpected financial requests marked as “urgent” or “confidential”
- Email addresses that are slightly misspelled or off
- Requests to bypass normal payment procedures
- Pressure to act quickly without consultation
How to Prevent Business Email Compromise
The good news? With a few proactive steps, Staffordshire businesses can reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams.
Email Spoofing Protection: A Must-Have
Implement email authentication protocols like:
- SPF (Sender Policy Framework)
- DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)
- DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance)
These tools confirm that an email came from a trusted source and help prevent spoofed emails from reaching your team. Not sure if you have SPF or DMARC in place? Use tools like MX Toolbox to check your domain setup.
Train Your Team
Human error is often the weakest link. Provide staff with training on:
- Spotting phishing emails
- Verifying payment requests
- Password hygiene and email security best practices
Encourage employees to check their sent folders regularly and report anything suspicious.
Use Two-Step Payment Authorisation
Require multiple approvals for high-value BACS transfers. Two-person verification adds a crucial layer of security and slows down fraudulent transactions.
Deploy Anti-Phishing Software
Advanced email security tools can identify and quarantine suspicious messages. AI-driven platforms learn to detect patterns of fraud, including BEC phishing scams, before damage occurs.
Set Up a Cybersecurity Response Plan
Prepare your business for the worst with a clear response plan:
- Define the incident reporting process
- Know how to freeze transfers quickly
- Notify relevant authorities immediately
How Commercial Networks Can Help
Our Staffordshire-based team at Commercial Networks specialises in helping local businesses secure their email systems and defend against business email compromise. We offer:
- BEC simulation training
- DMARC/SPF configuration
- Email security solutions and 24/7 monitoring
- Support with Cyber Insurance compliance requirements
Secure Your Business Against Email Threats
BEC scams are on the rise, but Staffordshire businesses can fight back with awareness and the right defences. From training staff to email spoofing protection and phishing detection, it’s all about being one step ahead. If your business needs help securing its communications, reach out to Commercial Networks today.
📞 Call our Newcastle-under-Lyme office on 0333 444 3455 or use our contact form to schedule a cybersecurity consultation. Let’s protect your business together.
