Attackers target DocuSign
DocuSign handles millions of documents daily for businesses worldwide. Its trusted brand and frequent email notifications make it a prime target for phishing. Attackers take advantage of:
- high email volume that lowers user vigilance;
- the urgency often associated with signing requests;
- users’ routine habit of quickly responding to signing emails.
Phishing emails often copy DocuSign’s design to appear legitimate and trick users into compromising their credentials.
How phishing attacks work
The user receives an email appearing to be from DocuSign, often stating:
“You have a document waiting for your signature.”
The email includes a button like Review Document or Sign Now, which leads to a fake DocuSign login page. Once users enter their credentials, attackers steal login details or install malware on the device.
Phishing email example
From: DocuSign secure-docs@docusign-mail.com
Subject: Action Required: Signature Request Pending
You have received a new document to sign.
Please review and sign the document to complete processing.
[Review Document]
Failure to respond within 24 hours may delay processing.
Red flags to watch for
Fake domains
Legitimate DocuSign domains:
- @docusign.net
- @docusign.com
Spoofed domains used in attacks:
- docusign-secure.net
- docusign-mail.com
- documents-docusign.org
Suspicious links
Hovering over the button often reveals a non-Docusign domain or a redirect link leading elsewhere.
Poor visuals
- Low-resolution logos
- Incorrect colors
- Off-brand icons
Unusual urgency
Phrases designed to pressure users:
- “Sign within 24 hours”
- “Contract will be canceled if not signed immediately”
Malicious attachments
Legitimate DocuSign emails never include ZIP, EXE, or ISO files. These formats are often used to deliver malware.
Language issues
- Spelling mistakes
- Awkward or unnatural phrasing
Missing authentication
Spoofed emails may lack DKIM signatures or fail SPF checks in email headers.
Business risks
- Stolen employee credentials
- Hijacked signing sessions
- Leaked contracts and confidential documents
- Malware infections
- Exposure of sensitive client data
Protection measures
- Verify sender domains before clicking
- Avoid unexpected email links
- Always use official DocuSign portals
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Conduct regular employee training
- Use advanced email security filters
Secure signing with extra protection
While DocuSign remains widely used, companies increasingly seek stronger internal controls for sensitive contracts. Solutions like DocuChain offer:
- isolated signing workflows outside regular email traffic;
- encrypted storage for signed contracts;
- controlled employee access to signing sessions.
Use DocuChain to secure your contract signing process — get started now.
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