When was the last time you clicked on an online ad?
Did you assume it was legitimate?
If you did, you’re not alone. Scammers rely on this kind of trust to carry out their attacks.
“Malvertising” refers to malicious advertising, where online ads are used to trick users into downloading harmful malware, stealing sensitive information, or even making fraudulent payments. These attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and pose a growing threat to businesses of all sizes. Even worse, you don’t always have to click on these ads to become a victim – simply viewing them in an outdated browser can lead to malware infections.
The three main types of malvertising attacks include scam malvertising, fake installer malvertising, and drive-by download malvertising. Here’s a closer look at these:
Scam Malvertising: This type of ad claims your computer is infected and urges you to call for support. Once you do, scammers convince you to install software that grants them access to your system. They then charge you to “fix” the non-existent issue.
Fake Installer Malvertising: These ads lead you to fake websites mimicking trusted brands. You might think you’re downloading legitimate software, but instead, you’re downloading malware that compromises your device.
Drive-by Download Malvertising: With this type, ads can infect your computer without you even clicking on anything. It exploits outdated browsers to automatically download malicious files or extensions.
Recognizing these types of attacks is crucial in protecting your business. If you see an ad claiming your computer has been hacked or urgently requires attention, take a moment to question its authenticity. How would this company know anything about your system?
Always double-check the links before clicking. If they lead to an unfamiliar or suspicious domain, avoid them. Most importantly, ensure your browser is up to date – regular updates patch vulnerabilities that malvertising often exploits.
Training your employees to recognize suspicious ads is essential, as they are your first line of defense. By educating your team, you can help protect your business from costly damage.
Scammers want you to click without thinking. But staying cautious can make all the difference. If an ad seems off, trust your instincts, and verify before clicking.
Need help educating your team to protect your business from malvertising and other online scams? We’re here to help – get in touch today.