Why Do I Keep Getting Phishing Emails Even Though I Don’t Click on Links? - D1 Defend D1 Defend

Phishing emails are one of the top cybersecurity risks facing businesses in the escrow industry. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting escrow companies, as they often deal with sensitive financial information, wire transfers, and client data. While you may be cautious and never click on suspicious links, you may still find phishing emails slipping into your inbox. But why does this happen? 

In this blog, we’ll explore why escrow companies continue to receive phishing emails, how phishing campaigns work, and what your business can do to protect itself from these persistent threats. 

Why Escrow Companies Keep Getting Phishing Emails 

Your Email Address Is Publicly Available – Many escrow businesses list contact details online to build trust and facilitate client communication. However, this also makes email addresses publicly accessible, increasing the likelihood of phishing attempts. Cybercriminals often scrape public databases, business directories, and even real estate platforms where escrow agents and companies are listed. 

Phishing Campaigns Are Mass-Distributed  – Phishing attacks often target industries dealing with financial transactions. Escrow companies are prime targets for mass-distributed phishing campaigns, as they handle large sums of money and confidential information, making them appealing to hackers looking for big payouts. 

Data Breaches Could Have Exposed Your Information  –  Escrow companies often work with multiple third parties, including banks, title companies, and real estate agents. If any of these partners experience a data breach, your company’s email addresses could be compromised and sold on the dark web, exposing your team to increased phishing risks. 

Email Harvesting Tools Are in Use  – Attackers use sophisticated tools to gather email addresses from various escrow-related websites. Once your company’s email is captured, it can be shared among cybercriminals looking to exploit the sensitive nature of escrow transactions. 

Bots and Email Spoofing Techniques  – In the escrow industry, phishing emails might impersonate known contacts, such as real estate agents, clients, or title officers. Cybercriminals use spoofing to trick you into believing the email is from a trusted source, even if you’ve never given out your email directly to the attacker. 

How Escrow Companies Can Reduce Phishing Emails 

Enable Advanced Email Filters and Spam Protection  – Escrow companies should invest in advanced email security solutions that automatically flag and block phishing attempts, especially those that impersonate financial institutions or real estate professionals. 

Limit Where You Share Your Business Email  – Be mindful of where your business emails are posted online. Consider using a separate email for public directories or third-party platforms while keeping your primary escrow-related communications private. 

Use Email Security Software  – In addition to spam filters, escrow companies should consider using email security software that provides an extra layer of protection against phishing attacks aimed at compromising financial transactions. 

Monitor for Data Breaches – Given the critical nature of escrow transactions, regularly monitor your company’s exposure to data breaches. Escrow companies should stay vigilant and secure their communication channels through multi-factor authentication (MFA) and advanced breach detection systems. 

Report Phishing Emails – Reporting phishing attempts is crucial in improving your company’s overall cybersecurity posture. Escrow professionals can help reduce the frequency of phishing emails by working with email providers to improve filters and report suspicious activity. 

Vigilance Is Key for Escrow Companies  

While phishing emails are a common threat in the escrow industry, staying vigilant and using advanced email security measures can help protect your business and client information. Contact us today for expert advice on how to safeguard your escrow transactions and email communications from phishing attacks.