The phenomenon of “malvertising” is growing.
Malvertising is when hackers or criminals hide malicious software, also known as malware, in fake ads.
Now criminals have started promoting fake websites in Google search results, with the aim of getting users to download malicious files onto their computers.
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A fake browser
One of the programs criminals have created scam ads for is the popular Arc browser, according to Malwarebytes.
The ad is there to trick people into a fake version of Arc’s website, instead of the browser’s real site.
There, the user is asked to download a file to their Macbook – something that should absolutely be avoided.
If the file is installed on a vulnerable Mac, it can steal everything from the user’s files and passwords to their cryptocurrencies and browser data.
Arc is best known as a browser, but it is also available as an app. Photo: TheKoshiro K / Alamy / Stella Pictures
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The warning: “Don’t fall into the trap”
The technology site Tom’s Guide now issues a warning to its readers.
“Don’t fall into the trap,” the site warns, explaining that scam ads will likely continue to appear in Google search results.
“Malvertising is quite effective and while Google is making efforts to fix the problem, hackers will likely continue to use this tactic in their attacks.”
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How to avoid malware in your Mac
The site also comes with some advice for the reader to avoid falling into malicious websites or software.
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