Malvertising: Definition, Techniques & Defense

Malvertising is a malware-delivery device that uses common website elements. Some forms of malware require a click, such as tapping on an ad. Others can launch without any user interaction at all. 

Malvertising is relatively common. Estimates vary, but about 1 percent of all the ads you see online could hold this nasty element. 

Let's walk through what malvertising is and what it entails. Then, we'll dig into methods web browsers and website owners can use to block these attacks before they begin. 

What is malvertising?

Malware ads are a form of cyber attack in which hackers use a website you know and trust to execute dangerous code that puts your security at risk. 

There are two primary forms of malvertising:

• Pre-click: Malware launches on your computer as the web page loads. You don't need to do anything to start it, and this form of attack is hard to stop. 
• Post-click: You tap on an ad or some website element, and malware launches in response. 

Some types of malvertising launch ad malware on your computer. These programs display advertising for products you don't want, or they redirect your searches to ad