Hacked or Spoofed? When an Email Appears to Have Been Sent From Your Own Address
Discovering an email in your inbox that appears to have been sent from your own address is often interpreted as a definitive sign that an account has been hacked or accessed without permission. This reaction is understandable, particularly when the message contains threats, demands, or claims of surveillance.
In practice, however, the appearance of an email originating from your own address is rarely proof of compromise.
Spoofing vs. Compromise
Messages of this type are most commonly the result of address spoofing rather than unauthorised access. Email systems were not originally designed to verify sender identity by default. As a result, the “From” field displayed to recipients can be altered without the sender having any connection to the account being impersonated.
The visible sender details are not a reliable indicator of origin. In practical terms, the email is delivered from systems entirely unrelated to your account; the sending service simply "declares" your address as the apparent origin. Modern email clients prioritise simplified presentation over technical detail, which can obscure this distinction and give the impression that the message was sent internally.
Assessing the Content and Intent
It is common to assume that an email sent in this way indicates individual targeting. In most cases, these messages are distributed in large volumes using automated tools and address lists obtained from historical data breaches. The use of your own address as the apparent sender is a broad tactic designed to provoke anxiety, not a reflection of personal interest in you.
However, the situation warrants closer attention if the message:
- Demonstrates familiarity with recent private activity.
- Includes accurate, non-public information.
- Is followed by persistent contact across other digital platforms.
A genuine account compromise usually becomes apparent through wider signs, such as unexpected login alerts, changes to account settings, messages appearing in your "Sent" folder, or difficulties accessing the account despite using correct credentials.
How We Assist
For organisations and high-profile professionals, emails that impersonate internal addresses or executive domains can present significant concerns even where no breach has occurred. These incidents may be used to support fraud attempts, undermine confidence, or create confusion within a business environment. At Conflict International, we provide the technical expertise and investigative clarity needed to resolve these incidents.
Conflict Pro: Premium Digital Protection
For individuals and family offices requiring ongoing security, our Conflict Pro service offers a proactive shield. We monitor for data leaks and provide a rapid-response framework to handle impersonation attempts or digital harassment before they escalate.
Cyber Intelligence & Incident Response
Where an email forms part of a wider pattern of harassment or a "Business Email Compromise" (BEC) attempt, our Cyber Intelligence team can:
- Analyse Mail Headers: Trace the true point of origin and the servers used to route the message.
- Assess Exposure: Determine if your credentials have been compromised in recent global data breaches.
- Technical Audits: Ensure that no "ghost" rules or unauthorised forwarding have been established in your email environment.
Forensic & Litigation Support
Where incidents persist or involve financial loss, we assist with the preservation of Evidence. Our focus is on establishing exactly what has occurred and providing a court-ready examination of the activity to support legal action or coordinate with service providers.
Contact Conflict International
Recognising that a "self-sent" email is usually a feature of how email protocols work—rather than a sign of personal exposure—helps individuals and organisations respond proportionately. However, where uncertainty remains or the potential impact is significant, obtaining professional guidance is the most effective way to regain confidence.
Contact Conflict International today for a confidential consultation to assess your digital security and protect your private or professional communications.