There are many types of threats online. One of the most common is called “malvertising.” It crops up everywhere, including social media sites, websites, and Google searches.
Two things are making malvertising even more dangerous: 1) Hackers use AI to make it very believable, and 2) it’s on the rise, according to Malwarebytes. In the fall of 2023, malvertising increased by 42% (month over month).
It’s important to stay informed about this online threat. Knowledge is the power to protect yourself, especially when it comes to malicious cybercriminals. Below, we’ll help you understand malvertising and give you tips on identifying and avoiding it.
What Is “Malvertising?”
Malvertising is the use of online ads for malicious activities. For example, when the PlayStation 5 was first released it was very hard to get, which created the perfect environment for hackers. Several malicious ads cropped up on Google searches. The ads made it look like someone was going to an official site, but instead, they went to copycat sites. Criminals design these sites to steal user credentials and credit card details.
Google attempts to police its ads, but hackers can often have their ads running for hours or days before they’re caught. These ads appear just as any other sponsored search ad on Google.
Google is not the only site where malvertising appears. It can also appear on well-known sites that have been hacked or social media feeds. It can happen on other search engines such as Bing or Yahoo.
Tips for Protecting Yourself from Malicious Online Ads
Review URLs Carefully
You might see a slight misspelling in an online ad’s URL. Just like phishing, malvertising often relies on copycat websites. Carefully review any links for things that look off.
Visit Websites Directly
A foolproof way to protect yourself is not to click any ads. Instead, go to the brand’s website directly. If they truly are having a “big sale,” you should see it there. This tip is useful for all types of phishing, just don’t click those links and go to the source directly.
Use a DNS Filter
A DNS filter can help protect you from mistaken clicks. It will redirect your browser to a warning page if it detects danger. DNS filters look for warning signs, and then block dangerous sites. This can keep you safe even if you accidentally click a malvertising link.
Do Not Log in After Clicking an Ad
Malvertising will often land you on a copycat site and the login page may look identical to the real thing. One of the things phishers are trying to steal is login credentials. They can get big money for logins to sites like Netflix, banks, and more.
If you click an ad, do not input your login credentials on the site, even if the site looks legitimate. Go to the brand’s site in a different browser tab.
Don’t Call Ad Phone Numbers
Phishing can also happen offline. Some malicious ads include phone numbers to call. Unsuspecting victims may not realize fake representatives are part of these scams. Seniors are often targeted with malvertising scams. They call and reveal personal information to the person on the other end of the line.
Many times these ads appear to be legitimate alerts from Microsoft, your internet provider, or your antivirus provider. These fake alerts pressure you to call their number and scare you into not calling your normal IT company.
Just say no to calling numbers that pop up on your computer. If you find yourself on a call, do not reveal any personal data, just hang up. Remember, this is an elaborate scam. These people prey on triggers like fear. They also work to gain your trust.
Don’t Download from Ads
“Get a free copy of MS Word” or “Get a Free PC Cleaner.” These are common malvertising scams. They try to entice you into clicking a download link, often for a popular program or freebie. The link actually injects your system with malware. The hacker can then do further damage.
Never click to download anything from an online ad. If you see an ad with a direct download link, it’s often a scam.
Warn Other When You See Malvertising
If you see a suspicious ad, warn others. This helps keep your colleagues, friends, and family more secure. If you’re unsure, try a Google search on the ad. You’ll often run across scam alerts confirming your suspicion.
It’s important to be smart and arm yourself with knowledge. You can then share this with others. Foster this type of cyber-aware community. It helps everyone ensure better online security as well as get alerted of new scams cropping up.
Improve Your Online Security Today
Is your device up to date with security patches? Do you have a good anti-malware solution? Is DNS filtering installed to block dangerous websites?
If you’re not sure of any of those questions, contact us. Our cybersecurity experts are here. We’ll help you find affordable solutions to secure your online world.
Give us a call or email to schedule a chat about online security.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.