When was the last time you clicked on an online ad? Did you stop to question whether it was safe—or just assume it was legit? If you didn’t think twice, you’re not alone. And unfortunately, that’s exactly what cybercriminals are hoping for. Protecting your business from malvertising starts with knowing what to look for.
Malvertising (short for “malicious advertising”) is a tactic where attackers use online ads to spread malware, steal personal data, or trick you into handing over money. These fake ads can appear on legitimate websites and often look completely harmless—or even helpful.
The scary part? Sometimes you don’t even have to click to be compromised. Just viewing a malicious ad in an outdated browser can open the door to an infection.
Here are three of the most common types of malvertising to watch for:
- Scam Malvertising – These popups usually claim that your computer is infected and prompt you to call a “support line.” Once on the phone, scammers walk you through installing software that gives them control over your device—and then charge you to fix a problem they created.
- Fake Installer Malvertising – You click an ad for a popular program, thinking you’re getting the real thing. But the download actually installs malware, often from a convincing copycat website.
- Drive-By Download Malvertising – This one doesn’t even need a click. If your browser isn’t up to date, simply loading a page with a malicious ad on it can install malware automatically.
Being aware of these tactics is your first defense. Don’t believe any ad that urgently tells you your system is compromised—ask yourself, “How would they even know that?” Always verify links before clicking, and check that URLs are from official domains. Keeping your browser updated is also critical, since newer versions patch the security holes these attacks rely on.
Make sure your entire team is aware, too. Your employees are often the front line when it comes to cyber threats, and giving them the right training can prevent a lot of headaches.
Cybercriminals are counting on people to act fast and trust blindly. But if something feels off, it probably is. Pause, double-check, and stay alert.
Need help protecting your business from malvertising and stay secure online? We’ve got your back—reach out today.
Apollo IT Services has been helping businesses since our founding in Austin, TX in 2015. With offices in Austin and Northwest Arkansas, we’ve continued to evolve alongside technology, adapting our services to include comprehensive managed IT solutions, cybersecurity expertise, and cloud services. Our mission is simple: to empower your business with reliable IT and empower you with peace of mind. Give us a call today!