What is Malvertising?
In today’s day and age, online fraud and cybercrime can come in many shapes. This article will tackle one of the growing threats in the digital space- Malvertising.
Malvertising is a form of online advertising that uses malicious code to deliver malware to a user’s device. It is a serious threat to internet users, as it can be used to trigger data breach attacks, steal personal information, install unwanted software, or even take control of a user’s device.
The term “malvertising” is a combination of the words “malware” and “advertising.” It refers to online advertising as a vector for delivering malware to a user’s device. This can happen in a number of ways, including through the use of corrupt ad networks, malicious ad tags, or infected third-party ad servers.
How Does Malvertising Happen?
There are many ways malicious actors carry out malvertising attacks:
1. Corrupt Ad Networks
One of the main ways that malvertising happens is through corrupt ad networks. These are networks of websites and apps used to display ads to users. Ad networks are a popular way for advertisers to reach a large audience, but they can also be a way for attackers to spread malware. Attackers can buy ad space on a network and use it to deliver malware to users. This is known as a “drive-by download” attack, and it can be difficult to detect and prevent.
2. Malicious Ad Tags
Another way that malvertising happens is through the use of malicious ad tags. These are small snippets of code used to display ads on a website or app. Ad tags can be used to deliver malware to a user’s device, either by redirecting the user to a malicious website or executing malicious code on the user’s device. This type of attack is known as a “tag-based” attack, and it can be difficult to detect and prevent.
3. Infected Third-Party Ad Servers
A third way that malvertising happens is through infected third-party ad servers. These servers are used to deliver ads to a website or app. Attackers can infect these servers with malware, which can then be delivered to users through the ads. This type of attack is known as a “server-side” attack, and it can be difficult to detect and prevent.
Is Malvertising Similar to Ad Malware?
Malvertising and ad malware are similar in that they both involve the use of online advertising as a vector for delivering malware to a user’s device. However, there are subtle differences between the two.
The main characteristic of malvertising is that it is a form of social engineering where attackers use the trust of the users in online advertising to deliver malware.
Ad malware, on the other hand, refers to malware that is specifically designed to be delivered through online advertising. This type of malware is typically embedded in the ad itself and is activated when the ad is displayed to the user.
Ways to Defend Against Malvertising
In order to avoid falling victim to malvertising, it is important to be aware of the threat and to take steps to protect yourself.
1. Install an Ad Blocker
One way to protect yourself is to use an ad blocker, which can block ads from known malicious sources.
2. Install a Pop-Up Blocker
Another way to protect yourself is to use a pop-up blocker, which can block unwanted pop-ups and pop-unders.
3. Update OS and Software
Additionally, you should ensure that your device is running the latest version of the operating system, as well as the latest version of any anti-virus software or anti-malware software that you are using.
4. Be Cautious of Ads
It is also important to be cautious when clicking on ads, as well as when visiting unfamiliar websites. Avoid clicking on pop-ups or ads that look suspicious, and be wary of clicking on ads that lead to unfamiliar websites.
5. Beware of Phishing
Additionally, you should avoid downloading software from unfamiliar sources that are usually sent through email phishing links, as this can also lead to malware infections.
In conclusion, malvertising is a serious threat to internet users, as it can be used to deliver malware to a user’s device. Protect your assets from the simplest and most serious attacks through SecureBrain’s cybersecurity solutions. Contact us now to learn more.