Business Email Compromise (BEC) is one of the most common and costly forms of cybercrime today. It is a reminder that even the most advanced security systems depend on one critical factor: people.
BEC occurs when attackers impersonate a trusted individual or organization through email to trick recipients into sending money, sharing sensitive information, or authorizing fraudulent purchases. These scams are often subtle, well-researched, and timed to create a sense of urgency. The result can be financial loss, reputational damage, and disruption of business operations.
While the tactics behind BEC continue to evolve, prevention remains possible when awareness and technology work hand in hand.
1. Verify unexpected requests before taking action.
Always confirm wire transfers, payment requests, or changes in vendor details through a secondary method such as a quick phone call or internal chat message. A few extra minutes can prevent costly errors.
2. Look closely at sender details.
Fraudulent emails often use nearly identical addresses. Attackers might replace an “m” with two “n’s” or use alternate domains to mimic legitimacy. Slow down before clicking links or downloading attachments.
3. Keep communication open.
Encourage employees to speak up when something feels off. A quick question like “Did you mean to send this?” can stop an attack in progress. Security thrives in a culture of collaboration.
4. Empower your teams with regular awareness training.
Cybersecurity is not a one-time initiative. Routine reminders, phishing simulations, and awareness refreshers help turn employees into active participants in defense.
Even with strong defenses, mistakes can happen. What matters most is how quickly your organization responds.
If a suspicious link is clicked or a strange email slips through, immediate reporting can make all the difference.
Create a clear, judgment-free process for employees to notify IT or your security partner. Quick response and transparency allow your team to contain threats, assess exposure, and strengthen weak points before they cause real harm.
As Matt Hildebrandt, President and CEO of StrataDefense, explains: “Cybersecurity isn’t about blame. It’s about shared responsibility. Every click, every conversation is part of your defense.”
Modern defenses blend human awareness with smart systems. Layered protection, such as multi-factor authentication, advanced email filtering, and continuous monitoring, helps reduce the risk of compromise. Strategic training keeps your people alert and informed.
At StrataDefense, we work alongside your team to align cybersecurity practices with business priorities. Our managed IT and security solutions make vigilance part of daily operations, ensuring protection feels natural, not disruptive.
“Technology can protect us from many things, but human awareness is what stops most attacks before they start.” — Matt Hildebrandt, President and CEO, StrataDefense
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is more than an annual reminder. It is a chance to elevate how your organization approaches protection.
By combining proactive tools with informed teams, you strengthen not only your systems but also the trust that drives your business forward.
StrataDefense helps organizations transform awareness into readiness through strategic partnership, continuous monitoring, and expert-led guidance. Together, we build a culture of security that protects what matters most.
Let’s align your cybersecurity strategy with your business goals. Contact StrataDefense to schedule a conversation with our team.