Definition
Unauthorized access to user accounts.
Context
Account takeover is commonly associated with cyber fraud, social engineering, and access rights abuse. It affects digital platforms, email systems, and business-critical applications and often serves as an entry point for further fraudulent activities.
Meaning
Enables unauthorized transactions, data manipulation, and control bypassing, posing a significant risk especially for privileged accounts.
Example
Email account hijacked after phishing.
Sources
Suggested citation
wirtschaftsforensik.ch Editorial Team: "Account Takeover", in: Glossary, wirtschaftsforensik.ch, https://wirtschaftsforensik.ch/glossar/account-takeover/, accessed April 18, 2026.