In today’s digital business world, email remains one of the most important communication tools. But it also comes with a serious threat: Business Email Compromise (BEC). This type of attack targets companies of all sizes. In this post, you'll learn what BEC is, why it's so dangerous, and how modern solutions like Identity Theft Detection and Response (ITDR) can actively protect your business.
Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a cyberattack where criminals use fake or compromised email accounts to steal sensitive information or manipulate financial transactions.
Common attack methods include:
Emails that appear to come from the CEO (“CEO fraud”)
Fake payment instructions sent to accounting departments
Compromised supplier communications with altered banking details
These emails often look highly convincing - using real names, email signatures, and even entire email threads.
Because many small businesses lack dedicated IT teams. Protective measures, employee training, or monitoring systems are often missing - making it easier for attackers to succeed.
According to the KPMG Cybersecurity in Austria 2024 report, BEC is one of the top cyber threats to businesses.
A successful BEC attack can lead to direct financial losses, data breaches, and reputational damage.
The real danger: many businesses don’t notice the attack until days or even weeks later - by then, it’s often too late.
This is where a modern security strategy comes in:
Identity Theft Detection and Response (ITDR)
ITDR is a system that detects identity theft, alerts the right people, and takes automatic action - in real time. It's one of the most effective defenses against BEC because it doesn't just rely on technical indicators, but also analyzes behavior and context.
Real-Time Monitoring
It monitors all activity around email accounts, logins, and user permissions - detecting suspicious patterns like foreign logins or unusual login times.
Automatic Alerts and Blocking
If identity theft or unusual email behavior is detected, access is immediately blocked - before any damage is done.
Analysis and Reporting
ITDR solutions provide clear reports that help you identify weaknesses and prevent future attacks.
Integration with Existing Systems
Whether you use Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or local servers. ITDR can be integrated into your current infrastructure.
SMEs in Austria are often caught between the push for digital transformation and tight budgets. That makes them prime targets, especially via email.
With ITDR, you get a solution designed specifically to detect and stop identity misuse in real time - before it becomes a financial or legal issue.
Particularly in industries like:
Accounting & financial services
Healthcare
Construction & engineering
Retail & e-commerce
... protection from Business Email Compromise isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
Business Email Compromise is not a future risk - it’s happening every day, even in Austria. With Identity Theft Detection and Response, you can act proactively instead of just reacting.
📞 Interested in a security check for your business?
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