When was the last time you clicked on an online ad?
Did you assume it was legitimate without thinking twice?

If so, you’re not alone—and that’s exactly what scammers are counting on.

"Malvertising", or malicious advertising, is a growing threat where cybercriminals use online ads to trick users into:
🔹 Downloading malware
🔹 Sharing sensitive information
🔹 Making fraudulent payments

And here’s the scary part—you don’t even have to click the ad to be compromised. Simply loading an infected ad in an outdated browser can be enough to put your device and your business at risk.

The Three Most Common Malvertising Techniques

🛑 1. Scam Malvertising

These ads display alarming messages claiming your computer is infected and urge you to call a support number.
Once you call, scammers convince you to install "helpful" software—giving them control of your system.
They’ll then charge you to "fix" an issue that was never real in the first place.

🛑 2. Fake Installer Malvertising

Fake ads often lead to cloned websites that look like trusted brands.
You think you’re downloading legitimate software—but you’re really installing malware that compromises your device and network.

🛑 3. Drive-by Download Malvertising

The most insidious kind: Drive-by downloads happen without you clicking anything at all.
These ads exploit vulnerabilities in outdated browsers to automatically install malicious files or extensions.

How to Spot and Avoid Malvertising

✅ Be skeptical of urgent warnings.
If an ad claims your computer is infected or demands immediate action, pause and think.
How would an ad know the health of your device?

✅ Double-check links before you click.
Hover over links to see where they’re sending you.
If the URL looks suspicious or doesn't match the official domain, stay away.

✅ Keep your browser updated.
Most drive-by attacks exploit known vulnerabilities that have already been patched—so keeping your browser and plugins updated is critical.

✅ Educate your employees.
Your team is your first line of defense. Training them to recognize malvertising threats can prevent costly breaches and downtime.

Stay Cautious, Stay Secure

Cybercriminals rely on users trusting ads without thinking.
But a little skepticism and a strong focus on security hygiene can protect your business from these evolving attacks.

The next time you see an online ad that feels suspicious, trust your gut—and verify before you click.

Need Help Training Your Team to Spot Online Threats?

At Custom Technologies, we help businesses like yours create a culture of cybersecurity awareness.
From employee training to proactive IT security services, we’ll help protect your people and your business.

🔐 Let us manage your network so you can manage your business.
📩 Get in touch today to learn more about our cybersecurity solutions.