Use of online advertising to spread malware, often on legitimate websites through compromised ad networks.
Malvertising (malicious advertising) uses online ad networks to deliver malware to users of legitimate websites. Attackers buy ad space or compromise ad networks to distribute malicious ads that can infect visitors through drive-by downloads or redirect to attack sites. Because ads are served through third-party networks, even reputable websites can unknowingly deliver malvertising. This makes malvertising particularly insidious—users following safe browsing practices can still be exposed.
Why It Matters
The DSC Perspective:
Malvertising affects even careful users on trusted sites. Ad blockers provide protection, as do updated browsers and endpoint protection. Consider allowing ad blockers for security-conscious organisations.