Business Email Compromise
Expert BEC Investigation & Wire Fraud Recovery
Business email compromise (BEC) attacks have cost organizations over $50 billion worldwide. Our investigators trace fraudulent transactions, preserve evidence for law enforcement, and help recover stolen funds.
What is Business Email Compromise?
Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a sophisticated scam where attackers use compromised or spoofed email accounts to trick employees into transferring funds or sensitive data. Unlike mass phishing, BEC attacks are highly targeted, often involving weeks of reconnaissance and social engineering. Our investigators specialize in tracing these attacks, preserving evidence, and working with law enforcement to recover funds.
Signs You May Be a BEC Victim
- Wire transfer was sent to a new or changed bank account
- Executive or vendor requested urgent payment via email
- Email account shows signs of unauthorized access or forwarding rules
- Vendor invoice details were subtly altered
- You received confirmation of a payment you didn't authorize
Our BEC Investigation Process
Immediate Response
Contact your bank immediately to attempt fund recall. We guide you through the critical first 72 hours.
Email Forensics
We analyze compromised accounts, identify the attack vector, and determine the scope of exposure.
Fund Tracing
Our investigators trace the money trail and work with financial institutions on recovery.
Evidence Collection
Court-admissible documentation for law enforcement, insurance claims, and potential litigation.
Frequently Asked Questions About BEC Attacks
Can stolen funds be recovered from a BEC attack?
Recovery is possible but time-critical. Banks can often recall wire transfers within 72 hours. Beyond that window, funds may have been moved to overseas accounts. Immediate action significantly improves recovery chances—contact your bank and our team immediately upon discovery.
How do BEC attacks happen?
BEC attacks typically begin with email account compromise through phishing or credential theft. Attackers then monitor email communications, learn payment patterns, and impersonate executives or vendors to request fraudulent transfers. Some attacks use look-alike domains rather than compromised accounts.
Should we report BEC to law enforcement?
Yes, immediately. File a complaint with the FBI's IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) and local FBI field office. Law enforcement can work with banks to freeze accounts and has resources for cross-border investigations. We can assist with law enforcement coordination and evidence packaging.
Will cyber insurance cover BEC losses?
Coverage varies by policy. Many cyber insurance policies cover BEC losses, but some exclude 'voluntary' transfers. Social engineering coverage is often a separate endorsement. We provide detailed forensic reports that document the attack methodology to support your insurance claim.
How do we prevent future BEC attacks?
Prevention requires multiple layers: multi-factor authentication on all email accounts, out-of-band verification for payment changes, employee training on BEC tactics, and email security controls. We provide specific recommendations based on how your organization was targeted.
Time is Critical in BEC Recovery
The first 72 hours determine whether stolen funds can be recovered. Contact us immediately.