Last updated by BusinessBlogs on April 30, 2024
Malvertising remains a severe challenge. It involves spreading malware or unwanted software through online advertising, often via deceptive ads that contain malicious code. Cybercriminals exploit online ad systems by creating malicious ads that contain infected code. These ads can be found on legitimate websites or even reputable ad networks.
When users interact with infected ads by clicking or viewing them, the malware can be installed on their devices without their knowledge. This can lead to cybersecurity issues such as data breaches, identity theft, or unauthorized access. Malvertising does not always require user action, and it is prevalent on mobile devices, where users are more susceptible to clicking by accident.
Since the first known attack in 2007, the number of malvertising attacks has grown exponentially, numbering in the billions! Before you go off the grid, here is a list of tips to help you prevent and deal with malvertising.
Table of Contents
- Tip #1: Make Sure All Your Software Is Up-to-Date
- Tip #2: Watch Out for Links
- Tip #3: Ad Blockers
- Bonus Tip: Prevention
- Takeaway
Tip #1: Make Sure All Your Software Is Up-to-Date
Ensuring your software is updated means better security against malvertising. Software updates often include patches for vulnerable spots to prevent exploitation by hackers. You can effectively mitigate the threat of malvertising and other online dangers by remaining vigilant and promptly installing updates for your operating system, web browser, plugins, extensions, and security software.
Be Aware of Fake Software Updates Web ads can be a channel for fake software updates. Know this: anti-malware companies never send you alerts through a web ad. Companies can’t detect infections on your system just because you visit a site. Notifications typically come from the software you use, such as AVG Internet Security, which informs users of known local vulnerabilities through their software pop-ups.
Browser Popups A popup is a tiny window on your screen while browsing a website, typically used for advertising, notifications, and lead generation. Popups can be a means of malvertising due to the following:
- High Visibility
- Limited User Control
- Exploitation of Trust
- Dynamic Content
- Vulnerabilities in Website Code
- Reliance on Ad Networks
- Evasion Techniques
Users should be cautious when encountering popups and avoid clicking on suspicious or unexpected content. Popups can look realistic, but closely reading the content may reveal language errors or over-the-top urgency, indicating fraud. Hackers often use words like “immediately” and “urgently” to provoke quick action without thinking. Always read carefully before clicking anything.
System Tray Notifications System tray notifications can be even more convincing. Look for urgency and scare tactics. If the product name seems fake or includes vague promises like “we’ll protect your privacy,” it’s likely fraudulent. Always search for the product name; if it’s not on page one of Google, it’s probably fake.
Close Your Browser Instead of clicking a suspicious ad, close your entire browser. If the alert goes away, you have yourself a faker.
Tip #2: Watch Out for Links
Email is one of the easiest ways for hackers to attack. Attachments and links can open malware, a tactic known as phishing. A secure email service can help protect you through link protection and spam filtering.
Tip #3: Ad Blockers
Ad blockers are an effective way to prevent cyberattacks and safeguard your privacy. Conduct thorough research to select a reliable cybersecurity company to protect you against malvertising. Tools like AdBlock and BlackFog Privacy offer several benefits:
- Protect Your Privacy
- Guard Against Malvertising
- Reduce HTTP Cookies
- Improve User Experience (UX)
- Remove Clutter
- Load Content Faster
Bonus Tip: Prevention
Every time you go online, countless spots ask for your info. Malvertising techniques can trick you into entering private information. Prevention is the best protection, so be proactive.
Use Secure Browsers Use the Brave Browser, which automatically blocks third-party ads and trackers. This provides a safer browsing experience and, as an added bonus, faster page load times.
Takeaway
Malvertising remains a persistent threat, but there are effective strategies to safeguard against such malicious attacks. By staying vigilant and recognizing warning signs, you can thwart potential threats. Look out for alarming popups and typos, and remember that reputable companies do not rely on web ads that vanish when you close your browser—a clear indicator of fraudulent activity.
