Watch Desk posted an update
Google ads carrying a sophisticated tech-support scam appeared across legitimate websites, including maps, weather, property, document-hosting and sports services, according to Ars Technica.
Why it mattersThe ads reportedly froze Windows and Mac screens, then told people to call a bogus support centre. Netskope observed users from 619 customer organisations click the ads between 31 August and 14 September. The firm blocked the content, so none of those observed users were scammed, but the campaign reached at least 284 publisher sites through more than 250 Google Ads campaign IDs. People who called were allegedly pressed to pay large fees, hand over remote access or disclose personal information. The practical rule is refreshingly dull: do not phone a number displayed in a panic-inducing pop-up. Close the page, use your security software and contact the company through a number or website you already trust.
Discuss: How much responsibility should Google and publishers carry when malicious ads can turn ordinary websites into convincing fake emergency rooms?
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