Business Email Compromise

Scammers use social engineering or computer intrusion to trick businesses into paying money.

How it works

Of 40 fraud types, business email compromise (BEC) fraud is the second-highest reported fraud for monetary loss. Also known as CEO fraud or wire fraud, it can involve spoofed or compromised email accounts belonging to a high-level executive that are sent to someone in the business who does its financial transactions. The email requests a wire transfer for what appears to be a valid business reason. Another example involves the fraudster sending a spoofed email from a supplier to a company, requesting payment via wire transfer to a fraudulent account.

How to protect yourself

• Train employees to use good security practices.
• Be aware of unsolicited emails requesting wire transfers for payment.
• Look closely at the email address. It may be slightly altered.

How to report it

If you suspect you’re a victim of a BEC, or attempted BEC, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, and your local police or RCMP.  

The Commission is responsible for the administration, education and enforcement of provincial legislation that regulates securities, insurance, pensions, credit unions and certain consumer services. If your complaint relates to an area outside of the Commission's regulated areas, we may refer you to the appropriate reporting agency or organization.