Beware these common ‘malvertising' attacks

Recall the last online advertisement you clicked on…

Did you automatically believe it was legitimate?

If your answer is yes, you’re not alone – and this is precisely what scammers rely on.

“Malvertising,” or malicious advertising, involves scammers using online ads to deceive you into downloading malware, sharing sensitive data like passwords, or even giving away money.

These attacks are becoming more sophisticated and pose an increasing threat to businesses of all sizes. Even worse, you don’t have to click on these ads to fall victim; simply loading the ad in an outdated browser can compromise your device.

The three most prevalent malvertising techniques are scam malvertising, fake installer malvertising, and drive-by download malvertising. Here’s a brief overview of each:

·         Scam malvertising involves an ad claiming your computer is infected and urging you to call for support. Once you do, scammers persuade you to install software that gives them control over your system, then charge you to “fix” the non-existent problem.

·         Fake installer malvertising typically uses ads that direct you to cloned websites of trusted brands. You download software, believing it’s genuine, but instead, you install malware on your device.

·         Drive-by download malvertising is where ads infect your computer without any clicks. This form of malvertising exploits outdated browsers to automatically install malicious files or extensions.

Identifying these scams is the first step in protecting your business. If you encounter an ad claiming you’ve been hacked or need to act urgently, pause and consider: How could this company know anything about your computer?

Additionally, always verify links before clicking. If the link doesn’t lead to a legitimate domain, avoid it. Most importantly, ensure you’re using the latest browser version, as updates fix vulnerabilities that malvertising often targets.

Remember to share this information with your employees as well. They are your first line of defense, and training them to recognize suspicious ads can prevent serious issues for your business.

Scammers want you to trust without questioning. However, a bit of skepticism can make a significant difference. The next time you see an ad that seems off, trust your instincts and consider its safety before clicking.

Interested in training your team to safeguard your business from malvertising and other online threats? We’re here to help, reach out to us.