DocuSign is a familiar name for most people. That familiarity is exactly what makes it useful to scammers.
Cybercriminals often send fake DocuSign phishing emails that look like real signature requests. The email may ask you to “review,” “open,” or “sign” a document. The problem is that the link may not take you to DocuSign at all.
Instead, it could lead to a fake login page, malware download, malicious app approval, or another attempt to steal your personal or financial information.
The good news: there is a safer way to check before you click.
The Safest Way to Open a DocuSign Email
If you receive a DocuSign email you were not expecting, do not click the link in the email.
Instead:
- Open your browser manually.
- Go directly to DocuSign’s official website.
- Look for the option to access documents.
- Enter or paste the 32-character security code from the email.
- If the document opens, it is likely legitimate. If it does not, treat it as suspicious.
This one extra step can help you avoid fake links while still allowing you to access legitimate documents.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious if a DocuSign email includes any of the following:
- A link that does not go to docusign.com or docusign.net
- No 32-character security code
- A generic greeting like “Dear Customer”
- A QR code in an attachment
- A request for your password or login details
- Urgent language, threats, or pressure to act immediately
- HTML or ZIP attachments
Real DocuSign notifications should not require you to download unusual attachments or provide sensitive information through a suspicious link.
What If the Email Looks Like It Came From You?
Sometimes a fake DocuSign phishing email may appear to come from your own email address. That can be alarming, but it does not always mean your account was hacked.
In many cases, this is called spoofing, which means the sender information was faked.
Here’s what to do:
- Check your Sent folder.
- If the email is not there, it was likely spoofed.
- If the email is there, change your password immediately.
- Mark the message as spam or phishing.
- Run an antivirus scan.
- Turn on two-factor authentication if you have not already.
The Bottom Line
DocuSign phishing emails work because they feel familiar, official, and urgent. That is exactly why slowing down matters.
When in doubt, do not click from the email. Go directly to DocuSign, use the security code, and verify the document safely.
Want to learn more about protecting your financial information and avoiding costly mistakes? Contact our office or join us at an upcoming educational event.
This communication is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as, and should not be construed as, legal, tax, cybersecurity, or financial advice. While the information presented is believed to be reliable, no representation or warranty is made regarding its accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. Cybersecurity threats and tactics may evolve, and individuals should exercise independent judgment and consult with appropriate professionals before taking any action based on this information.
References to third-party platforms, including DocuSign, are for illustrative purposes only and do not imply any affiliation, endorsement, or responsibility for the content or security of such platforms.
We do not guarantee protection against fraud, phishing, or cybercrime. Implementing the practices described may help reduce risk but cannot eliminate it entirely.
If you believe you have been the victim of fraud or a cybersecurity incident, you should promptly contact the appropriate authorities and your financial institutions.
By receiving this communication, you acknowledge that neither the sender nor its affiliates shall be held liable for any losses or damages arising from the use of, or reliance on, this information.
