Don’t click the ads – Might be malware

June 4, 2024

By Kim Komando

When I have a question now, whether it’s finding a recipe or doing math, I’m using AI a lot more than doing a good ol’ Google Search. My go-to is ChatGPT, but Perplexity is useful, too. I often ask both AI bots the same question as a way to double-check things. Google Gemini is a big “meh” to me so far.

There are things Google Search works better than AI for — say, finding a software download, a customer service number or your doctor’s website. Keep in mind that cybercriminals and hackers are also using AI to up their game. You might not think twice about clicking a Google Search result, and cybercriminals know that. I don’t want you to become a victim.

Be careful where you click

Google doesn’t vet everyone who buys an ad. Cybercrooks have a long history of hiding nasty malware in Google Ads, and they’re getting really good at SEO, driving up their malicious search results to the top.

We’re talking about everything from bogus Amazon ads to fake tech support numbers. Doctors, clinics and hospitals are a major target, too. Yep, you could end up with malware just by searching Google for your doctor’s name so you can grab the address.

Any site with a ton of traffic is risky. Think YouTube, Facebook, Target and Walmart. Those are just a few companies attackers use to get you to click on their malicious results.

How to protect yourself

With more tools than ever at their disposal, scammers are good at writing things that can trick anyone. Outsmart these jerks.

• Don’t click on sponsored links or advertising when Googling something.
• Type all web addresses directly into your browser so you know you’re going to the official or legitimate site.
• Before clicking any link, hover your cursor over it to see where it goes. Does the URL look off? Don’t click it.
• Look for extras in the URL, like “USA” added to the end. For instance, instead of target.com, scammers might send you to targetusa.com. This is an easy way to make a fake version of a site you’d otherwise trust.

Browser settings to enhance your security

These simple, quick changes can help protect you.

On Chrome:

• Enable pop-up blockers: Go to Settings > Privacy and security > Site Settings > Pop-ups and redirects, and choose Don’t allow.
• Enable safe browsing: Go to Settings > Privacy and security > Security and select Enhanced protection.
• Disable Flash: Go to Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings > JavaScript, and set it to Don’t allow sites to use JavaScript.

On Safari:

• Enable pop-up blockers: Go to Safari > Settings. A box will pop up. Select Websites > Pop-up Windows on the left, and set it to Block and Notify.
• Enable fraudulent website warning: Go to Safari > Settings > Security, and check the box for Warn when visiting a fraudulent website.
• Disable Java: Go to Safari > Settings > Security, and uncheck the box for Enable JavaScript.

Want to make sure you’re protected? Antivirus software is your friend.

🎸 Watch out for a new text messaging scam. It says you won $500 or VIP tickets to the Elvis show in Las Vegas. You’ll need to press “1” for the money or “2” for the show. (Good one, right?)