Malvertising: What It Is and How to Avoid It

A guide to help you protect yourself from malicious ads.

What is Malvertising??

Malvertising is a term that combines "malicious" and "advertising". It refers to the practice of using online ads to spread malware or trick users into providing sensitive information. Malvertising can pose a serious threat to your online security and privacy, as it can compromise your device, steal your identity, or access your accounts.?

How Does Malvertising Work??

Malvertising works by exploiting the complex and dynamic nature of online advertising. Most websites you visit will feature some sort of advertising, such as ad banners on the side of the page or a video playing within the page itself.

However, not all ads are harmless. Some ads are designed by cybercriminals to infect your device or deceive you. When browsing a webpage, if you click on a malicious ad, you may be taken to a phony login page or a fake retail website that will ask for your sensitive information. Some malvertising can even download malicious files onto your system without your knowledge or consent.

How Do Cybercriminals Gain Access to Ads??

Most websites use ad networks that manage the advertisers, traffic, and payments. Cybercriminals can take advantage of this system by fooling the ad networks into thinking that they are a legitimate advertiser allowing them to place their malicious ad in the network.

How to Stay Safe from Malvertising??

Malvertising can be hard to spot and prevent, but there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of falling victim to it. Here are some tips to help you stay safe from harmful ads:?

• Think before you click! If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid clicking on ads that make unrealistic or suspicious offers, such as free products, instant money, or miracle cures.?

• Patch, Patch: Stay up-to-date with security patches on your device and your browser. Malvertising often exploits vulnerabilities in software or plugins, so keeping them updated can help you avoid potential infections.?

• Ad-Blocker: Install a reputable ad blocker for your browser. Ad blockers help protect you from malvertising by preventing ads from being displayed. However, be careful not to install fake or malicious ad blockers, as they may do more harm than good. Do some research before downloading any ad blocker and only use trusted sources.?

• End-Point-Protection: Use antivirus software and scan your device regularly. Antivirus software can help you detect and remove any malware that may have been installed by malvertising. Make sure your antivirus software is also updated and run scans frequently.?