Attackers go where the money and access are. In Boca Raton’s financial, legal, healthcare and corporate offices, that means executives, their assistants and anyone who handles payments. These tips focus on the people most likely to be targeted.
Verify Every Money Request
The most costly scams do not use viruses. They use a convincing email asking to wire funds, buy gift cards or change a vendor’s bank details, often appearing to come from the CEO or a trusted partner.
- Confirm every new payment or banking change by phone, using a number you already have
- Never use contact details from the email itself
- Treat urgency and secrecy as warning signs
- Require a second person to approve large or unusual payments
Use Strong Sign-In Protection
- Use multi-factor authentication on every account, preferably app-based or a hardware key
- Never approve a sign-in request you did not start
- Use a password manager so every password is unique
Be Careful With Assistants and Delegated Access
Assistants often manage calendars and inboxes for executives. Use proper delegation features rather than shared passwords, and make sure assistants know the same verification rules.
Protect Devices on the Road
- Keep laptops and phones locked and with you when traveling
- Use your phone’s hotspot or company VPN rather than open hotel or airport Wi-Fi
- Report a lost device immediately so it can be locked or wiped
- Avoid charging phones at public USB ports; use your own charger
Limit What Attackers Can Learn
Criminals research targets on social media and company websites to make scams believable. Be thoughtful about posting travel plans, organizational details and personal information publicly.
Watch for Signs of Account Takeover
Unexpected password reset emails, sign-in alerts from unfamiliar places or sent messages you do not recognize can mean someone has access. Report them right away.
Report Without Hesitation
If something feels off, stop and ask. Quick reporting is how small incidents stay small, and no one should be embarrassed for checking.
Our security awareness training includes scenarios for executives and finance teams. See our cybersecurity services in Boca Raton.
Cybersecurity →
Endpoint detection and response, a 24/7 SOC, email security, privileged access control and employee training working together.
“Simplitfy are our in-house I.T experts. Always professional, courteous and resourceful. There is no problem they can't solve!”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is business email compromise?
It is a scam where criminals impersonate executives, vendors or clients by email, often from a real hijacked account, to trick staff into sending money or sensitive information.
Should executives take security training too?
Yes. Executives are frequent targets, and their participation sets the tone for the whole company.
What should finance staff do if a request seems urgent and secret?
Pause and verify by phone with a known number. Urgency and secrecy are classic signs of fraud.
Last updated November 2026