Business Email Compromise Explained

Business email compromise (BEC) scams target businesses but can affect seniors who own small businesses or work part-time. Scammers hack or fake an email from a boss, vendor, or client to trick you into sending money or sensitive information. They make the email look real to fool you.

For example, you might get an email that looks like it’s from your boss asking you to wire $5,000 to a new vendor. You send the money, but it goes to the scammer, and your boss never sent the email. Seniors are at risk if they handle payments or emails for a small business or charity.

Tips to Identify Business Email Compromise

Verify Email Addresses: Check the sender’s email closely. Scammers use addresses that look similar but have extra letters or numbers.

Confirm Requests Directly: If an email asks for money or sensitive info, call the person using a known number to confirm, don’t reply to the email.

Be Cautious of Urgent Requests: Scammers often say it’s urgent to rush you. Take time to verify before acting.

Look for Odd Wording: Emails with typos, unusual phrases, or a different tone than usual may be fake.

Use Secure Email Practices: Don’t share login details, and use two-factor authentication. Ask a tech-savvy family member to help set it up.

Train Yourself: If you handle business emails, learn about BEC scams. Ask your workplace or a friend to explain common signs.