“Message Sent Using DocuSign Service” Email Scam Explained
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
Have you received an email claiming a document is waiting for your “electronic signature” on DocuSign? Maybe the subject line said you have a new document or contract to review and sign digitally.
While it may look legitimate, this “DocuSign” phishing scam aims to steal your login credentials and personal information.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the “Message Sent Using DocuSign Service” email phishing scam.
Overview of the DocuSign Phishing Scam
The “Message Sent Using DocuSign Service” is a crafty phishing scam that pretends to be from the legit electronic signature company, DocuSign.
Phishing scams use email or websites masked as trustworthy entities to trick users into giving up sensitive data like passwords and credit card numbers.
This DocuSign scam email looks convincing since it uses corporate branding and a professional format. The subject line normally says something like:
(1 New) DocuSign Electronic Signature
Urgent: DocuSign Document Ready for Signature
Contract Update: DocuSign Account Action Required
Here’s an example of what the scam email body says:
This message was sent to you using the DocuSign Service.
Do Not Share This Email This email contains a secure link to DocuSign. Please do not share this email, link, or access code with others.
REVIEW DOCUMENTS
Download the DocuSign App
This message was sent to you using the DocuSign Electronic Signature Service.
The email tries to create a sense of urgency and importance around “reviewing documents” on DocuSign.
Some even threaten account suspension if you don’t log in, which scares victims into acting rashly.
If you click on the “REVIEW DOCUMENTS” or “CONTINUE” button, you’ll be taken to a fake DocuSign login page hosted on a phishing site.
When you enter your email and password here, the scammers capture your credentials. The phishing site looks identical to the real DocuSign site to trick you into entering details.
From here, the attackers gain access to your account and can:
Access private documents and files in your email
Send more phishing emails to your contacts
Access bank accounts, credit cards, or other financial platforms if you reuse passwords
Steal your identity or commit fraud using your credentials
This scam is often used to distribute malware that can lock you out of your device and files.
Next, we’ll explore exactly how the DocuSign phishing scam works to lure victims in and steal sensitive information.
How the DocuSign “Electronic Signature” Phishing Scam Works
The DocuSign phishing scam is intricately designed to manipulate users into handing over login credentials and personal data.
Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of how the fraudsters operate:
1. You Receive an Email Claiming to be From DocuSign
You’ll get an email using corporate DocuSign branding and logos in the header. The sender email is spoofed to look like it’s from @docusign.com.
As covered earlier, the subject line normally says something like:
(1) New DocuSign Signature Request
Action Required: DocuSign Account Review
Urgent: Contract Document Requires Signature
This gives the impression there’s an urgent document that needs your digital signature on the real DocuSign platform.
2. Scam Email Body Urges You to “Review” or “Sign” Documents
The body copy reinforces the urgency around signing into your DocuSign account. Here’s some typical wording:
This message was sent to you using the DocuSign Electronic Signature Service. Please login to review and sign your documents.
Per our records, you have 1 new document requiring your immediate attention. Sign in to your DocuSign account to review and electronically sign these documents.
Urgent Notice: Your DocuSign account needs attention. Login now to avoid any interruption in service.
The bold call-to-actions like “Sign in” or “Review Documents” add legitimacy so you’re more likely click without thinking.
3. “DocuSign” Button Links to a Fake Phishing Login Page
When you click buttons like “CONTINUE,” “REVIEW DOCUMENTS,” or “SIGN IN,” you’re taken to a phishing site instead of the real DocuSign site.
The URL often looks convincing with intense random strings like:
The site is designed to precisely mimic the real DocuSign login page, down to the graphics, branding, and web design. This fools victims into believing it’s the legitimate site.
![Fake DocuSign Login Page][]
4. You Attempt to Login With Your Email and Password
Without realizing you’re on a phishing site, you then enter your email address and password in the login fields. ![Entering login details on phishing site][]
You might assume this extra login step is just DocuSign taking precautions before the document review. But in reality, you’re giving your credentials directly to scammers.
5. Attackers Steal Your Email Login and Other Personal Information
Once submitted, your email address and password are captured by the phishing site and attackers. They now have direct access to your email account.
From here, the scammers can:
Access private documents and files stored in your email inbox
Impersonate you by sending emails from your account
Access connected accounts if you reuse passwords
Access financial platforms or bank accounts linked to that email
Steal your identity, commit fraud, or sell your information
The scammers can also distribute malware, trigger downloads to lock you out of your device, or hold your computer hostage for ransom.
Some phishing sites will ask for more personal information beyond your email and password, such as:
Full name
Phone number
Home address
Credit card number
Driver’s license details
With this information, criminals can easily steal identities, commit financial fraud, or sell data to other parties.
What To Do If You Fell For the DocuSign Email Scam
If you submitted your details on the phishing site, here are important steps to take right away:
1. Change Your Email Password and Enable Two-Factor Authentication
As soon as possible, log into your legitimate email account and change your password. Make sure it’s unique and complex.
Also set up two-factor authentication using an authenticator app or mobile number for an extra layer of security.
This prevents the scammers from accessing your email with an old password.
2. Scan Your Computer for Malware, Adware, and Viruses
The phishing site may have downloaded malware or viruses onto your device. Scan your computer with Malwarebytes to detect and remove anything suspicious.
Also check browser extensions and remove anything you don’t remember installing.
If you reuse passwords across accounts, start changing them immediately.
Notify your bank, credit card companies, employer, or anywhere sensitive if the compromised email is associated with them.
Monitor statements closely for fraudulent activity. Consider freezing credit reports to be safe.
4. Beware of Any Emails From Your Compromised Account
Attackers may now send emails from your account to personal contacts or colleagues containing more phishing links or malware attachments.
Warn them not to open anything from your email. Send test emails from a different account if needed.
5. Watch For Identity Theft and Fraud
Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity indicating stolen identity, such as:
Credit cards or accounts opened in your name
Debt collection calls for accounts you don’t own
Medical bills for treatment you didn’t receive
Payroll/tax issues indicating job changes you didn’t make
Place fraud alerts and monitor your credit reports as precautions.
Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan
Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free — one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.
The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:
Adware — the cause of those annoying pop-ups
Browser hijackers — unwanted redirects and changed homepages
Trojans and spyware — hidden programs stealing your data
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) — software you never asked for
👉 Select your device below — Windows, Mac, or Android — then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows — and it’s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows from the official source. The free version is all you need — it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.
(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)
Install Malwarebytes
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the MBSetup file. If Windows shows a User Account Control pop-up, click “Yes” to allow the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:
Choose where you’re installing the program — “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” — then click Next.
Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.
When installation is complete, the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen will open automatically.
On the final screen, click Open Malwarebytes to launch the program.
Enable “Scan for Rootkits”
Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the Settings gear icon on the left side of the screen.
In the settings menu, find “Scan for rootkits” and click the toggle so it turns blue.
Done? Click “Dashboard” in the left pane to return to the main screen.
Start the Scan
Click the blue Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found — malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all of them at once.
Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.
Restart Your Computer
Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click Yes. Once you’re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.
When the scan finishes, click Quarantine to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That’s it — your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss — adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it’s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Mac.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The Malwarebytes for Mac Installer will guide you through a few quick screens. Click “Continue” and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.
When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click “Get started“.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”
Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you’re installing it on. Click either Personal Computer or Work Computer, whichever applies.
Start the Scan
Click the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the threats at once.
Restart Your Mac
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot — if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you’re logged back in, your Mac is clean.
Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
After the scan, tap Remove Selected to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean — no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button — so blocking them at the source is your best defense.
We recommend AdGuard, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.
Tips to Avoid Falling For the DocuSign Phishing Scam
Here are some tips to avoid becoming a victim of the “DocuSign email” scam going forward:
Look for Red Flags in the Sender Details
Carefully inspect the sender’s email address and name. Phishing emails may show:
Misspellings (docusign.co instead of .com)
Odd domains and addresses
Reply-to addresses from free email providers
Unofficial addresses like support@docusigndocuments.com should raise alarms.
Verify the Login URL
Before entering any information, double check that the URL matches DocuSign exactly:
https://www.docusign.com/
Official URL starts with docusign.com
Scrutinize any redirection links carefully. Unusual or excessively long URLs are red flags.
Look for Poor Grammar, Spelling, and Formatting
Phishing emails tend to contain typos, awkward phrasing, and other linguistic mistakes. Notice if:
Words are misspelled
Sentences sound unnatural
Branding/graphics look off
Official DocuSign emails will be professionally polished without errors.
Don’t Click Links in Unexpected Emails
Avoid clicking on any embedded links if you receive a surprise DocuSign email out of the blue. Even if it looks legitimate, manually navigate to the site to log in.
Verify the email first by contacting the alleged sender directly.
Use Caution When Asked to Verify Personal Information
DocuSign will rarely ask you to enter personal details like credit cards or government ID numbers to access documents.
Any urgent demands for sensitive information through email could be a scam attempt. Proceed with extreme caution.
DocuSign Emails Must Be Digitally Signed
Legitimate DocuSign emails contain visible digital signatures with “Signed by DocuSign” wording. Phishing emails lack this signature stamp of authenticity.
![DocuSign Digital Signature][]
Enable Login Notifications
Turn on DocuSign login notifications so you’re alerted whenever someone accesses your account. This lets you catch unauthorized logins immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions About the DocuSign Phishing Scam
1. How can I tell if a DocuSign email is legitimate or a scam?
Carefully inspect the sender’s email address and name for inaccuracies. Phishing emails often contain misspellings, odd domains, or reply-to addresses from free providers. Verify the URL matches DocuSign’s official site docusign.com and check for digital signatures on all DocuSign emails.
2. What happens if I click the link in a DocuSign phishing email?
The links in scam DocuSign emails redirect to a fake login page designed to steal your credentials. If you enter any login details, attackers gain full access to your accounts.
3. What should I do if I entered my login information on a DocuSign phishing site?
Immediately change your password and enable two-factor authentication. Scan devices for malware, monitor accounts for fraud, and beware of additional phishing attempts from your compromised email.
4. How can I avoid falling for the DocuSign email phishing scam?
Carefully verify sender addresses, URLs, and content in any emails asking you to login. Manually navigate to docusign.com to enter credentials. Enable login notifications and use unique passwords to minimize risk.
5. Why do phishing scammers target DocuSign users?
DocuSign’s popularity for e-signatures makes it a prime target. Scammers bank on users having sensitive documents, payment info, and other valuable data in accounts they can access.
6. Can phishing scammers really replicate the DocuSign login page and emails?
Yes, phishing sites and emails are designed to precisely mimic the DocuSign branding, graphics, and content. This fools victims into believing they are on the legitimate website.
7. Is it ever truly safe to click links or download attachments from emails?
No, it is never guaranteed safe. Always manually navigate to sites and verify senders before clicking email links or attachments, no matter how legitimate they appear.
8. How can I report a suspected DocuSign phishing email?
Forward scam emails to spam@docusign.com. You can also report phishing sites to Google Safe Browsing and the Anti-Phishing Working Group.
9. What information do DocuSign phishing scams aim to steal from users?
These scams mainly target email login credentials to access other accounts. But they can also steal names, addresses, credit cards, files, and any other sensitive personal data.
10. Could my device get hacked by clicking on links in a phishing email?
Yes, phishing sites often contain malware payloads that install on devices when clicked, allowing remote access for attackers to steal data and spy.
The Bottom Line
The “DocuSign email” phishing scam tricks countless people into surrendering email passwords and personal information daily.
These fraudulent emails pose as DocuSign, claiming you need to urgently sign or review a document. Buttons redirect to a fake login page designed to steal credentials.
If you receive a suspicious DocuSign email, carefully inspect the sender details, URLs, and content for red flags. Avoid blindly clicking on links or submitting sensitive information.
Change passwords and enable two-factor authentication if you shared details through a phishing site. Monitor accounts closely for fraudulent activity and be wary of follow-up phishing attempts.
Staying vigilant is key to protecting yourself from this scam. Arm yourself with knowledge of common phishing techniques used in the deceptive “DocuSign email” scheme and others like it.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
