Cybersecurity Awareness Month Helpful Tip

Cyber Threats: Malvertising and Vishing

In today’s digital landscape, cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics to steal sensitive information, using both online and offline methods to exploit unsuspecting individuals and organizations. Two common threats are malvertising and vishing, which use different approaches but share a common goal—gaining access to personal or confidential data.

What is Malvertising?

Malicious advertising, or malvertising, involves cybercriminals using online ads to spread malware or trick users into divulging sensitive information. These malicious ads can appear on seemingly reputable websites. By clicking on a deceptive ad, users may be redirected to a fraudulent login page or a fake retail site designed to capture their personal information. In more severe cases, malvertising can silently download malicious software onto a device, putting both personal and organizational data at risk.

Many websites don’t control who advertises on their pages. Instead, they use ad networks to manage advertisers and ads. Cybercriminals can infiltrate these networks by posing as legitimate advertisers, allowing them to target users with harmful content. Even when browsing trusted websites, the ads you see may not always be safe to click on.

How to Protect Against Malvertising:

• Think before you click: If an ad makes an unrealistic offer, it’s likely a scam.
• Keep your systems updated: Regularly install security patches for your devices and browsers.
• Use an ad blocker: A reputable ad blocker can reduce exposure to malicious ads by preventing them from displaying in the first place.

What is Vishing?

Vishing, or voice phishing, is another tactic used by cybercriminals, but instead of relying on the internet, it involves phone calls. Attackers use social engineering techniques over the phone to manipulate individuals into sharing personal information or sensitive business data. They may disguise their identity by using blocked or spoofed numbers, making it easier to impersonate trusted entities like a colleague, a senior executive, or even a customer service representative.

The information obtained through vishing attacks can be used to breach an organization’s security. Even seemingly harmless details, such as employee names, job titles, or company procedures, can be used to launch a more targeted cyberattack.

How to Protect Against Vishing:

• Verify the caller's identity: Always be cautious when receiving unsolicited calls asking for sensitive information. If you didn’t initiate the call, verify the caller’s identity by comparing their phone number to official records.
• Avoid giving out personal information: Be skeptical of anyone requesting confidential information over the phone, especially if they claim to be from an organization you trust. Always ensure you are speaking to a legitimate source.

Staying Vigilant

While malvertising and vishing operate through different mediums—one through online ads and the other through phone calls—they both rely on manipulating individuals into making hasty decisions. Protecting yourself and your organization requires vigilance, skepticism, and proactive measures. By staying informed and implementing security practices, such as using ad blockers, updating software, and verifying the identity of unknown callers, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these common cyber threats.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Throughout the month of October, we will be sharing valuable insights and practical tips to help you stay ahead of emerging cybersecurity scams and breaches. Follow Handled IT to learn how to better protect yourself and your organization. Look for our posts with the Handled IT Partners logo to stay informed and secure.

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