When was the last time you clicked on an online advert?
Did you automatically assume it was safe?
If you answered yes, you’re not alone – and that’s exactly what cybercriminals are counting on.
Malvertising – short for malicious advertising – is a growing cyber threat. It involves scammers using online ads to trick users into downloading malware (malicious software), revealing sensitive information like passwords, or even handing over money.
Alarmingly, you don’t always need to click on a malicious ad to become a victim. Simply loading an infected advert in an outdated web browser can be enough to compromise your device.
This issue is becoming increasingly sophisticated, and businesses of all sizes are at risk. Let’s take a closer look at how these attacks work and how you can protect yourself and your organisation.
What Is Malvertising?
Malvertising refers to the practice of embedding malicious code within seemingly legitimate online advertisements. These ads can appear anywhere – even on reputable websites – making it incredibly difficult to spot a threat.
Once an ad is loaded or clicked, it can infect your device with malware, steal your personal information, or lure you into scams designed to extract money or install dangerous software.
The Three Most Common Types of Malvertising
Understanding the techniques scammers use is the first step in staying safe. Here are the three most common forms of malvertising you need to know about:
- Scam Malvertising: Scam malvertising typically displays alarming messages warning that your device has been compromised. You may be urged to call a “support” number immediately. Once you make contact, the scammers persuade you to install software that grants them remote access to your computer. They might then charge you a hefty fee to “fix” a non-existent problem, all while potentially stealing sensitive data from your system.
- Fake Installer Malvertising: Fake installer malvertising tricks you into thinking you are downloading legitimate software. Clicking on an ad may take you to a cloned version of a well-known brand’s website. Believing it’s genuine, you download what appears to be a trusted application – but instead, you install malware that can steal data, monitor activity, or even lock your system for ransom.
- Drive-By Download Malvertising: Perhaps the most worrying type, drive-by download malvertising, doesn’t require you to click on anything. Simply visiting a web page with a malicious advert – especially when using an outdated browser – can trigger a silent malware download. This kind of attack exploits vulnerabilities in software, often leaving users unaware that their device has been compromised until significant damage has been done.
How to Spot and Avoid Malvertising
A little vigilance goes a long way in protecting your business. Here’s what you can do:
- Question urgency: If an advert claims your system has been hacked or demands immediate action, pause and think. How would an unknown company know anything about your computer?
- Double-check URLs: Before clicking on any ad, hover over the link and check the destination. If it looks suspicious or doesn’t match the official domain, do not proceed.
- Keep your software updated: Ensure your browser and operating system are updated regularly. Updates often patch security vulnerabilities that malvertising campaigns exploit.
- Use reputable security software: Invest in strong endpoint protection to detect and block malicious ads before they can cause harm.
Educate Your Team – Your First Line of Defence
Cybercriminals are betting on the fact that people act without thinking. Building a culture of scepticism among your staff can be one of your best defences against malvertising and other cyber threats.
Regular cyber security training helps employees recognise suspicious ads and other social engineering tactics. It empowers them to react correctly and helps safeguard your business’s data and reputation.
Protect Your Business from Malvertising Today
Staying ahead of cybercriminals requires awareness, the right tools, and well-informed people.
If you would like help training your team to spot and prevent malvertising attacks, or need advice on strengthening your cyber security measures, we’re here to help.
Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help protect your business from online threats.
