A new attack technique is circulating, and it’s catching people off guard because the first step looks completely legitimate. Many users are reporting DocuSign emails that check out in every way including branding, sender domain, formatting, and timing. Everything looks normal until you start clicking.
How the Scam Slips Through
A genuine DocuSign email arrives in your inbox. Since your team uses DocuSign often, nothing feels out of place. You hit “Review Document” like you always do.
However, instead of loading a document to sign, the page displays a file link you need to click to continue. At first glance, the setup feels routine. Yet the moment someone clicks that second link, the attack begins.
Why This Method Works
Attackers know that fake DocuSign emails are easy to spot. Because of that, they’ve shifted tactics. Now they rely on legitimate DocuSign emails often triggered through a compromised account, to deliver the bait for them.
As a result, the first interaction feels safe. Even cautious users lower their guard because the message truly originates from DocuSign’s platform. Sadly, the link inside the “document” redirects to a malware site designed to steal credentials, infect devices, or drop remote-access tools.
Signs Something Isn’t Right
Although the email is real, the document workflow still exposes clues.
First, authentic DocuSign requests rarely ask users to click extra links inside the document. They usually show the file immediately.
Second, the interface may feel slightly off. Sometimes the wording sounds mechanical. Sometimes the layout looks a bit unfinished. Since attackers rely on speed, they often skip subtle design details.
Finally, the moment a link asks you to download something unexpected, it’s a major red flag.
How to Stay Ahead of This Threat
Even though this tactic uses a real DocuSign email, you can still protect yourself with a few practical habits.
- Confirm that the sender actually intended to send you a document. A quick message through Teams, Slack, or text clears things up fast.
- Avoid downloading documents or tools directly from embedded links. DocuSign should open the file inside the platform itself.
- Layering MFA reduces the damage if credentials leak during a malware attempt. It forces attackers to solve an extra challenge they rarely beat.
- Consider asking us to review any suspicious DocuSign request before you interact with it. That small pause can prevent a major mess.
What Your Business Should Do Now
This attack works because it blends real services with hidden traps. The trick feels subtle, but the fallout can be serious. Fortunately, a few simple guardrails keep your team safe.
If you want help tightening your defenses, reach out. We can walk through practical steps to protect your team from evolving document-based threats without slowing down your workflow.
Schedule your free discovery call today and let’s set up the right safeguards before these tactics escalate.
