Director Fraud and Online Security

We would like to reiterate that all users must be very careful when clicking any form of link be it a link to an unknown website or an attachment embedded within an email. If the sender is unknown or you feel that the email is not actually from the stated sender, it is better to ignore the email than risk opening it.

Fake emails or emails containing fake links & attachments are routinely used to gain access to small business accounts or banking information. Anti-virus and Anti-spam will stop most, but users also have a vital role to play. One example we frequently see is that a suspect email will contain a web link that will ask for your email password. This will then be used to commit banking fraud and other problems. Be extremely careful of any links you receive via email, and never enter your email password into a web page. You can always call us if you receive an email you’re not sure about or if you are being asked for your email password by a web page.

Director Fraud – Director Fraud Protection in Kent

We have noticed an increase in spoof emails claiming to be company directors and managers emailing other members of staff asking them to transfer money or for information that could be used by fraudsters to commit banking fraud. Online fraudsters are becoming ever-more sophisticated, and will stop at no end.

There are many instances of fraudster registering domains designed to be extremely similar to a targeted company and using public records such as a Companies House or companycheck to find out company directors names and information so that they can set up fake email accounts in their names. Our support desk are happy to discuss possible bad emails before they are opened, in this way users can gain an understanding of what to look for.

Most common types of scam emails:

 

• Someone will pose as a boss or director of a company instructing a member of staff to deposit into the fraudulent account.
• Fraudsters will often pose as the IT company of a bank saying they will need to make a series of test transfers.
• They will claim to be a supplier or business partner asking for fake outstanding invoices to be paid into a new bank account.

If you have any questions, you can talk to us about possible ways to improve your cyber security and help put measures in place to reduce the chance of successful fraudulent attacks. 

How to Ensure You’re Protected from Director Fraud & Online Security Threats

 

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting directors and senior staff using sophisticated scams like impersonation, invoice fraud, and business email compromise (BEC). Protecting your organisation starts with awareness and proactive procedures.

• Train All Staff – Not Just Finance Teams
  Everyone in your organisation should be aware of the risks of director fraud, not just your accounting or finance departments. Awareness is your first line of defence.

• Verify Manager & Director Communications
  Create a clear, company-wide policy for verifying any requests from directors—especially if they involve financial transactions or sensitive data.

• Use Two-Step Verification for Transactions
  Require a two-step approval process for all financial transactions. This could range from a shared security phrase to verbal confirmation via phone or in-person.

• Review All Transactions for Red Flags
  Always double-check for irregularities in payment requests—such as slight misspellings in company names, unfamiliar bank details, or unusual email formats.
• Audit Public Information About Your Company
  Review what’s publicly available on platforms like Companies House, your website, and social media. Remove or limit details that could be used in phishing or impersonation scams.
• Ensure Robust IT Security Systems
  Confirm that all your devices and systems are protected with up-to-date antivirus, anti-malware, and spam filters. Secure email systems are essential for fraud prevention.

At Cortec IT, we offer tailored cybersecurity solutions designed to protect company directors and senior executives from targeted cyber threats. From endpoint protection to employee awareness training and advanced email security systems, our team is ready to defend your business.

Worried about director-targeted fraud?
Contact Cortec IT for a free security assessment and find out how we can help secure your leadership and critical business data.
Call us : 020 8467 9222

Finally, if you have any questions or concerns about your organisation’s security, our expert team is here to help. We’ll work with you to identify vulnerabilities, implement effective measures, and reduce the risk of director fraud and cyberattacks.  Contact us today to discover how we can support your business with smart, secure technology solutions. And if you’d like to stay informed about our latest services, security tips, and technology updates, follow us on social media, it’s a great way to stay connected.