Law firms are a common target for email scams and business email compromise (BEC). This is because scammers know that law firms often have access to sensitive information, such as client data, financial records, and trade secrets. In this blog post, we will discuss how you can protect your law firm from email scams and BEC attacks.
What Is Email Compromising?
Email compromising is when a scammer tricks an individual into sending them sensitive information or money through email. This can be done by sending the victim a fake invoice, asking for personal information, or even pretending to be someone they know. Below are some common types of email compromising that you may come across:
Phishing:
Phishing is when a scammer sends an email that appears to be from a legitimate company or individual, but is actually sent with the intent of stealing personal information or money. The email will typically include a link to a fake website where the victim can enter their personal information.
Spoofing:
Spoofing is when the scammer sends an email that appears to be from a legitimate company or individual, but is actually sent from a different email address. This can be used to trick the victim into believing that the email is genuine.
Malware:
Malware is software that is designed to damage or disable computers and networks. The malware can be attached to an email as an attachment, or it can be hidden in a link that the victim clicks on.
Viruses:
A virus is a type of malware that can self-replicate and spread to other computers. It can be attached to an email as an attachment, or it can be hidden in a link that the victim clicks on.
Ransomware:
Ransomware is a type of malware that locks the victim’s computer or files until a ransom is paid. A rapidly growing enterprise, ransomware threatens your legal security.
How to Detect Email Scams
The best way to detect email scams is by being aware of the signs. The most common sign that an email is a scam is when the sender asks for personal information or money. However, there are other signs to look out for as well.
Check the Email Address:
One of the easiest ways to tell if an email is a scam is to check the email address. Scammers will often use fake email addresses that are very similar to the real thing.
Check for Grammar and Spelling Errors:
Another sign that an email may be a scam is if there are grammar and spelling errors. Scammers often don’t take the time to proofread their emails, which can lead to mistakes.
Check for Links and Attachments:
An email may be a scam if it contains links or attachments. Be especially cautious of attachments, as they may contain malware.
Check the Sender’s Name:
Another way to tell if an email is a scam is to check the sender’s name. Scammers will often use fake names that are similar to the real thing.
How to Prevent Email Scams
The best way to prevent email scams is by being aware of the signs and taking precautions. Here are a few tips to help you protect your law firm’s legal security:
- Never reply to an email from an unknown sender
- Do not open attachments from unknown senders
- Be cautious of links in emails
- Never send personal information or money through email
Protect Your Legal Security with IT Support for Law Firms
Email scams can be a major threat to law firms. By being aware of the signs and taking precautions, you can help protect your firm from these scams. If you are ever unsure if an email is a scam, contact the company or individual directly to verify its authenticity.
To learn more about email scams and legal IT security, talk to a representative from Praxis today.
