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What is Malvertising and how do you protect yourself from it

 1 year ago
source link: https://www.purevpn.com/blog/what-is-malvertising/
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We will be talking about everything you need to know about malvertising in this comprehensive guide.

What is Malvertising

Malvertising is a type of online advertising that uses malicious code to infect users’ computers. The code redirects users to websites containing malware or tricks them into clicking on ads that download malware onto their computers. Malvertising is a severe problem as it can be used to steal personal information, like credit card numbers or login credentials. 

It would help if you were careful about what websites you visit and what ads you click on.

How to detect Malvertising

As stated above, Malvertising is a type of online advertising that uses malicious or intrusive ads to spread malware or collect user data. Malicious ads can appear on websites of all types, including those that have nothing to do with the ad content. When users click on these ads, they can be taken to a site that hosts malware or tricked into giving up personal information. 

To avoid this, you must refrain from clicking on ads, even if they appear on legitimate websites. If an ad looks suspicious, do not click on it at all. Lastly, consider using an ad blocker to prevent malicious ads from being displayed in your web browser.

Types of Malvertising

Malvertising can target any user but is often used to target online shoppers or people who frequently use online banking and other financial services. Even though malvertising can be difficult to detect and avoid, there are some things you can do to protect yourself.

1. Drive-by downloads

Drive-by downloads are a common type of malvertising that can infect your computer without even having you click on anything. This type of attack usually happens when you visit a website infected with malware. The malware then uses security vulnerabilities in your web browser or plugins to download and install itself onto your computer. Such downloads can infect your computer with viruses, Trojans, and other types of malware.

2. Redirects

Redirects are also a type of malvertising that can send you to a malicious website without clicking on anything. The malware then uses security vulnerabilities in your web browser or plugins to redirect you to a malicious website. Redirects can also send you to a phishing or scamming website.

3. Fake ads

Fake ads are a type of malvertising tactic that can appear legitimate but aren’t what they appear to be. This type of attack occurs when you visit a page infected with malware. The malware then uses security vulnerabilities in your web browser or plugins to display a fake ad on your screen. Fake ads can infect your computer with malware, redirect you to a malicious website, or trick you into giving personal information.

3. Clickjacking

Clickjacking is a type of malvertising that can trick you into clicking on a button or link that you think is safe but isn’t. The malware then uses security vulnerabilities in your web browser or plugins to display a button or link on your screen. When you click on the button or link, you click on a hidden link that takes you to a malicious website. Clickjacking can also install malware on your computer or steal personal information.

How to protect your computer from Malvertising

Malvertising is a serious threat to your computer’s security. Malicious ads can infect your system with viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. They can also redirect you to spoofed websites that steal your personal information.

To protect yourself from malvertising, you should:

  • Keep your operating system and installed software up to date.
  • Use a reputable antivirus program and keep it up to date.
  • Avoid clicking on ads that look suspicious or are too good to be true.
  • Be cautious when downloading free programs, predominantly from unfamiliar websites.
  • Don’t click on links in email messages from unknown senders.

If you think your computer has been infected with malware, you should run a virus scan and contact a professional for help.

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