Trusted Email. Fake File. Real Danger.
By in

Trusted Email. Fake File. Real Danger.

Beware of Business Email Compromise (BEC) Scams Disguised as File-Sharing Requests

Cybercriminals are getting more creative every day. And one of their favorite tricks right now is a business email compromise (BEC) attack. This is when hackers gain access to a legitimate business email account and use it to send out malicious messages. Because these emails come from real, trusted accounts, they can be difficult to spot.

How the Scam Works

You might receive an email that looks perfectly normal—a message from a vendor, colleague, or client that says, “Here’s the file we discussed,” with an attached PDF or a link to view the document. The message even comes from a genuine business email address, so everything looks legitimate.

But once you open the “document,” you’re redirected to what appears to be a secure login page. Sometimes, you’ll even be asked to complete a “security verification” before signing in, providing another layer of deception meant to build your trust. Unfortunately, if you enter your username and password, you’ve just handed your credentials directly to the attackers.

A Real-World Example

Imagine this: a company’s accounting department receives an email from what appears to be their vendor’s billing manager. The email includes a PDF labeled Invoice_1032.pdf. When the recipient opens it, the file launches a login page asking them to verify their Microsoft 365 credentials. Thinking it’s a normal security step, the employee logs in, unaware that the credentials are being sent straight to a cybercriminal who can now access the company’s entire email system.

From there, the attacker can impersonate others within the organization, request payments, send more fake invoices, and spread the scam even further.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Be suspicious of attachments or links that open in your browser. If clicking an attachment or file takes you to a login page, stop immediately. It’s likely a phishing attempt.
  • Don’t be fooled by “security checks.” Cybercriminals often add fake verification steps to make their pages look legitimate.
  • Confirm unexpected requests directly. If a vendor, coworker, or manager sends an unusual file or payment request, verify it using a known contact method, and never by replying to the email.
  • Stay alert, even with trusted sources. A real email address can still be compromised. Always think twice before opening attachments or entering credentials.

At Citynet, we help businesses strengthen their defenses with cybersecurity awareness training, multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring. Protecting your team from these evolving scams starts with awareness, and a partner who understands how to keep your organization safe.

Learn more. Call us at 800.881.2638 to schedule a free consultation!

Tyler County to Celebrate USDA ReConnect Broadband Project with Citynet
By in

Tyler County to Celebrate USDA ReConnect Broadband Project with Citynet

Sistersville, WV – October 1, 2025 –  The Tyler County Development Authority, in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Citynet, will host a community celebration marking the launch of a transformative broadband project for the county.

The event will be held on Thursday, October 9, at 1:00 p.m. at Tyler Consolidated County High School, located at 1993 Silver Knight Drive, Sistersville, WV 26175.

Through the USDA ReConnect Program, the Tyler County Development Authority was awarded a 50/50 loan and grant package totaling $3.516 million. This investment will deliver fiber broadband internet to 1,366 households, farms, and businesses across 26.13 square miles, serving a population of 3,291 residents.

The project, served by Citynet, includes the installation of 74 miles of new fiber infrastructure, targeting parts of the county where internet service has long been unreliable or unavailable. Once complete, these communities will gain access to world-class, high-speed fiber internet, powering education, healthcare, agriculture, and economic opportunities.

“This project is a game-changer for Tyler County,” said Eric Peters, Tyler County Development Authority Executive Director. “For years, many of our families, businesses, and farms have struggled with inadequate or unreliable internet service. Thanks to the USDA ReConnect Program and our partnership with Citynet, that is changing.”

Citynet echoed that sentiment from its perspective as the provider:

“As a West Virginia-based company, Citynet is proud to invest in Tyler County and connect communities that have gone far too long without reliable broadband,” said Jim Martin, President and CEO of Citynet. “Fiber internet isn’t just about faster speeds. It’s about creating opportunity. This project ensures that Tyler County will have the connectivity needed to compete, grow, and thrive for decades to come.”

Representatives from USDA, the Tyler County Development Authority, Citynet, and local leaders will join residents in celebrating this milestone. Citynet will also be on hand to register those interested in the new fiber internet service.

Event Details:
What: Tyler County USDA ReConnect Broadband Celebration
When: Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.
Where: Tyler Consolidated County High School, 1993 Silver Knight Dr, Sistersville, WV 26175
Who: The event is open to the public, and all community members are encouraged to attend.