Malware comes in many shapes and forms, but one type you should definitely be on the lookout for is called “malvertising.” These malicious ads can pop up everywhere—from social media feeds to popular websites, and even Google search results.
What makes malvertising especially dangerous? Two things:
- Hackers are now using AI to make these scams look incredibly believable.
- Malvertising is on the rise. In fact, Malwarebytes reported a 42% month-over-month increase in fall 2023.
The best way to protect yourself is to stay informed. So, let’s dive into what malvertising is, how it works, and tips to keep you safe online.
What is Malvertising?
Simply put, malvertising is the use of online ads to carry out scams or spread malware. Here’s how it works: hackers create ads that seem legitimate to lure you into clicking.
Take the PlayStation 5 launch, for example. When it was hard to find, fake ads flooded Google search results. These ads looked like they’d take you to official retailers, but instead, they led to phishing sites designed to steal your personal info or payment details.
Even though platforms like Google try to remove these malicious ads, they often slip through and stay up for hours—or even days. And it’s not just Google. Malvertising can also show up on trusted websites or in your social media feed.
How to Protect Yourself from Malicious Ads
Here are some practical steps to avoid falling for malvertising scams:
1. Review URLs Carefully
Scammers often rely on slight misspellings or lookalike URLs to trick you. Before you click, take a close look at the web address. If something seems off, don’t risk it.
2. Go Directly to the Source
A foolproof way to avoid malicious ads? Skip clicking altogether. If you’re curious about a sale or offer, go directly to the company’s official website by typing the address into your browser.
3. Use DNS Filtering
Accidental clicks happen. A DNS filter adds a layer of protection by blocking dangerous websites. If you click on a harmful link, the filter will reroute you to a warning page before anything bad happens.
4. Never Log In After Clicking an Ad
One common scam is fake login pages that mimic real websites. If you’ve clicked an ad, don’t enter any login information. Instead, open a new browser tab and navigate to the site yourself to log in securely.
5. Don’t Call Numbers from Ads
Some ads include phone numbers that connect you to scammers pretending to be customer service reps. Once they gain your trust, they’ll try to steal personal info. If you’re unsure about a number, look it up independently or contact the company through their official website.
6. Avoid Downloads from Ads
“Free PC cleaner” or “Download MS Word for free”—these offers might sound tempting, but they’re often traps. Clicking on these download links could install malware on your device. Always download software directly from trusted sources.
7. Spread the Word
If you spot a suspicious ad, let others know. Share what you’ve learned with friends, family, or coworkers to help them stay safe too. The more we raise awareness, the harder it becomes for scammers to succeed.
Need Help Securing Your Devices?
When was the last time you checked your device for security updates? Do you have tools like anti-malware software or DNS filtering in place?
If you’re not sure, we’re here to help. Our team specializes in affordable, effective solutions to keep you safe online.
Ready to take the next step? Give us a call or send an email—we’d love to chat about how we can boost your online security.
