Scammers use DocuSign API to send fraudulent invoices

Breaking down the DocuSign API exploit

Based on intel from API security platform Wallarm, cybercriminals are leveraging legitimate DocuSign accounts and APIs to:

• Generate authentic-looking invoices through official DocuSign channels
• Deliver payment requests directly to finance teams’ inboxes
• Bypass standard email security filters and authentication protocols

This means scammers are purchasing actual DocuSign accounts and accessing official templates, allowing them to precisely replicate known vendor branding and payment workflows.

It represents a shift away from more “obvious” scams meant to capitalize on time-poor employees who simply don’t notice major anomalies – instead, these are sophisticated operations designed to blend seamlessly into normal accounts payable processes.

Rather than using obviously fake amounts, the criminals craft invoices that closely mirror legitimate pricing while inserting subtle additional charges such as activation fees. They’ve also developed a concerning two-step approach: first obtaining signatures on seemingly routine documents, then leveraging these signed documents to request payments either through DocuSign or through separate channels.

Why this matters for your organization

Evidence suggests organized criminal groups are using automated systems to distribute large volumes of fraudulent invoices – systematically, at scale. This trend has shown significant growth, with DocuSign’s own community forums reporting a marked increase in incidents over the past five months.

There are unique risks to financial operations.

1. Circumvention of standard controls

• Traditional email security measures cannot detect these threats
• The invoices appear within legitimate DocuSign workflows
• No suspicious links or attachments trigger security alerts

2. Enhanced credibility

• Attackers leverage DocuSign’s trusted brand reputation
• Fraudulent invoices mirror legitimate vendor documentation
• Payment instructions appear through official channels

3. Targeting of finance personnel

• • Attacks specifically target accounts payable workflows
  • Fraudulent requests blend with legitimate invoice processing
  • Time pressure and volume of transactions increase vulnerability

How to lower risks of falling victim to a DocuSign-related scam

Immediate actions

• Review and enhance payment verification protocols
• Implement mandatory secondary verification for all DocuSign-initiated payment requests
• Cross-reference vendor payment details against established records

System changes

• Update accounts payable procedures to include DocuSign-specific verification steps
• Enhance staff training to cover sophisticated payment fraud techniques
• Establish clear escalation protocols for suspicious payment requests

Strategic considerations

• Review internal controls around electronic payment authorizations
• Implement additional verification steps for high-value transactions
• Evaluate the need for specialized training for finance team members, especially those who are closest to high-value transactions and approvals