How Can You Tell If a DocuSign Email Is Fake or Real?

Phishing emails are becoming more convincing, and many now imitate trusted services like DocuSign. A recent example claimed to send an e-signature request, but the details exposed it as a fraud. Understanding how these scams work and what to look for is the best defence.

What Are the Red Flags in a Fake DocuSign Email?

The most obvious warning sign is the sender’s address. In this case, it came from @911cellphonebank.org, which has nothing to do with DocuSign. Genuine emails only ever come from @docusign.com or @docusign.net.

The subject line was another clue. Instead of the straightforward formatting used by DocuSign, the subject was filled with odd characters and broken phrases such as “eDocumentSignatures|Systematic|…”. The email also lacked any detail about who had sent the document. Real requests always show the sender’s name and email address, so you know who you are dealing with.

Finally, the disclaimer at the bottom mentioned “The Calwasupply Division”, which has no connection to either DocuSign or the recipient’s business. This kind of cut-and-paste legal text is typical of phishing campaigns.

Why Do Scammers Pretend to Send DocuSign Emails?

DocuSign is widely used for contracts, HR paperwork, and supplier agreements. Because the brand is so familiar, scammers know many people will not think twice before clicking on a link. The goal is simple: direct you to a fake site where your login details or even financial information can be stolen.

These emails also create a sense of urgency. If you believe a client or colleague is waiting for your signature, you may act quickly without questioning the source. For attackers, this combination of trust and pressure makes DocuSign a useful disguise.

How Do Genuine DocuSign Emails Look?

A real DocuSign request has a few consistent features. It will always come from an official DocuSign domain and include the name and email address of the person who sent the document. You’ll also see a unique document ID that you can cross-check by logging directly into your DocuSign account. Importantly, the link will take you to DocuSign’s secure website, not a third-party domain you’ve never heard of.

What Should You Do If You Receive a Suspicious DocuSign Email?

The safest step is not to click anything inside the email. Instead, report it as phishing in your email client and delete it. If you want to check whether a document is genuine, open your browser and go directly to docusign.com to sign in. Never follow the links inside a suspicious message.

It is also a good idea to alert your IT or security team so they are aware of the attempt. Phishing campaigns rarely target only one person.

How Can Businesses Reduce the Risk of Falling for These Emails?

Prevention starts with awareness. Staff should know how to recognise a fake request and feel confident reporting it. Technical controls help too: email filters that flag suspicious domains, and multifactor authentication so a stolen password alone will not compromise an account. Combined, these measures create a far stronger line of defence against phishing.

In Summary

Fake DocuSign emails are designed to look urgent and familiar, but small details give them away. If the sender’s domain looks wrong, if there is no clear information about who sent the document, or if disclaimers seem out of place, treat the message as suspicious. Always verify by going directly to DocuSign’s website rather than clicking inside the email.