Seven keys to protect yourself from malvertising

The so-called 'malvertising ' (spreading malware through advertisements) is becoming increasingly widespread due to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Therefore, our team of experts has highlighted seven recommendations that will help protect us against this malicious practice.

Artificial Intelligence, like any other advance in technology, is of great help to multiple sectors and, at the same time, brings with it cybersecurity problems. The important thing here is not to fear the context, what is relevant is to know where the risk avenues are, to be aware of the importance of the safe use of technology and to act responsibly. Overconfidence and ignorance of the possible dangers on the network continue to be one of the main entry points for cybercriminals.

S2 Grupo's team of experts has detailed that some types of malvertising are: steganography (hiding malicious code in images or texts), polyglot images (images that look normal but contain malware and also execute it), scareware (fake ads that indicate that the device is infected and generate fear in the user), ads that offer fake software updates, and technical support scams (they make people believe again that the device is infected and give a fake support contact to fix it).

Some clues to detect that we may be facing a case of malvertising is to find ads that ask for downloads or the introduction of personal data, as well as the offer of a product or service at a really attractive price, exorbitant discounts or even for free. Another example of this is when we see an advertisement for an antivirus that is not the one we have installed.

To avoid being a victim of malvertising, S2 Grupo recommends:

1. Install ad blockers in the browser.
2. Use an antivirus and keep it always updated.
3. Disable any unnecessary browser add-ons.
4. Update your devices.
5. Only download software from official sites.
6. Strengthen privacy settings and use only secure browsers.
7. Prepare and educate ourselves about the risks and warning signs of malvertising, as well as safe browsing practices.

We need to be aware that just as AI is being used for illicit purposes, so it is being applied to cybersecurity to quickly detect potentially dangerous ads and block them before they reach users. In any case, awareness and training on this situation will always be a fundamental step for cyber protection.