Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a type of cyber attack that targets organizations through their email systems. It is a form of social engineering attack where attackers manipulate and deceive employees into taking certain actions, such as transferring money, sharing sensitive information, or changing account details, under the assumption that the request is legitimate.
The BEC attack process typically involves the following stages:
Research and Reconnaissance:
Attackers conduct extensive research on the targeted organization, its employees, and its business practices. They gather information from publicly available sources, social media, and leaked data to tailor their attacks.
Spoofing or Phishing:
Attackers use email spoofing techniques to make their messages appear to be sent from a trusted source, such as a high-level executive, a supplier, or a vendor. These emails are carefully crafted to be convincing and bypass traditional email security filters.
Social Engineering:
The content of the email usually exploits urgency, authority, or fear to manipulate the recipient into complying with the attacker's request. They may claim there is a time-sensitive payment, an urgent business matter, or a change in payment instructions.
Targeted Employee:
The attackers identify specific employees who have the authority to conduct financial transactions or access sensitive information. Often, they target finance departments, accounts payable personnel, or employees with access to confidential data.
Request for Action:
The email will typically request the recipient to transfer funds, make a payment, or provide sensitive data, such as employee payroll information or customer details.
Successful Compromise:
If the employee falls for the scam and takes the requested action, the attackers achieve their objective, leading to financial losses, data breaches, or reputational damage for the targeted organization.
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