Malvertising

Malvertising has been hitting the news lately, in a new trend of fake Google ads, leading people to download malware.

The scammers are purchasing targeted Google Ads, so people searching for popular apps or websites see and click on their link first - since as an ad, it is at the top of the results.  The visitors are directed to a faked or hacked website instead.

So when the visitor clicks to download what they think is the app they were looking for - they download malware instead.

One variation took people to a lookalike page, that urged them to scan a QR code with their phone; which would then download the malware.

 How can I protect myself from malvertising?

• When doing a search, click on the actual search result for the page you are looking for, instead of the advertisement.
• Hover over the link to check that it is going where you think it is going, before you click.
• When possible, only download software from marketplaces like the Apple Store or Google Play store.
• Double-check the URL of the page you are on before downloading anything
• Keep your anti-malware protection up-to-date

 What do I do if I think I am a victim?

Shut the affected computer down and call your IT company immediately.

Then, file a report with the FBI:

FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

https://www.ic3.gov/