Don't use Google Ads to download software unless you're wanting to infect your machine

[thewayne]

There's been a big rise in bogus ads being put into Google searches that result in malware being downloaded.

If you need a copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader or other software, go directly to the vendor's site. If you're not sure, you can search for the proper maker easily enough.

Hopefully Google will soon tighten up their ad inspection and this problem will subside.

https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2023/02/until-further-notice-think-twice-before-using-google-to-download-software/

Comments

[kaishin108]

They are awful, yes!

[disneydream06]

EEK... Why would you use a pop up ad to get something like that. :o :o :o
Hugs, Jon

[thewayne]

People see ads for software and if it's advertised as free, they'll click.  With spam email - it only takes about a tenth of a percent purchase rate for the campaign to be profitable.

[disneydream06]

I am glad I have a very cautious side to moi. :o

[silveradept]

I feel like this is yet more reasons to keep using your adblockers, and to resist Google's changes that prevent them from working as well as they are.

[thewayne]

Agreed!