Watch Out for These Common ‘Malvertising’ Scams

Think back to the last time you clicked on an online ad.

Did you assume it was safe?

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

Malvertising (short for "malicious advertising") uses online ads to trick people into downloading malware, sharing sensitive information, or even handing over money.

And it’s getting harder to spot.
Even worse? Sometimes you don’t even need to click — simply loading a page with a malicious ad in an outdated browser could be enough to infect your device.

🚨 The 3 Most Common Malvertising Tactics

Here’s what to watch out for:

• Scam Malvertising:
  You see an ad claiming your computer is infected and urging you to call for support. On the call, scammers convince you to install software that gives them control over your system — then charge you to "fix" the fake problem.

• Fake Installer Malvertising:
  These ads redirect you to a convincing fake website (think big-name brands you know and trust). You think you’re downloading legitimate software — but you’re actually installing malware.

• Drive-By Download Malvertising:
  This is the sneakiest type. Just visiting a page with an infected ad — no clicks required — can trigger a download if your browser or plugins are out of date.

🛡 How to Stay Safe

Recognising these attacks is the first step in protecting your business:

• If an ad claims your device is hacked or urges you to act immediately, pause.
  (Ask yourself: How would they even know?)

• Check links carefully before you click. If a URL looks suspicious or doesn’t match the legitimate domain, don’t trust it.

• Keep browsers and software updated. Most drive-by attacks rely on old, vulnerable systems to succeed.

And don’t forget — your team is your first line of defence. Regularly training employees to spot suspicious ads and online threats can stop malvertising attacks before they start.

✅ Stay Smart. Stay Safe.

Cyber criminals are relying on you to trust without thinking.
A little caution — and a lot of healthy scepticism — can make all the difference.

If you want help training your team and strengthening your defences against online scams like malvertising, we’re here to help.