Google has just released an interesting statement that concerns the online security of us all. The search giant is currently taking aim at fraudulent download buttons, usually found on free software (freeware) pages, thus enhancing their Safe Browsing protection.
More on Social Engineering: Phishing
Google Is Improving Safe Browsing
Once the protection is active, the user should be spared of deceptive embedded content, usually exposing him to malware-related issues. In addition to such buttons, all advertisements prompting users to download missing updates will be eliminated.
This is Google’s statement:
In November, we announced that Safe Browsing would protect you from social engineering attacks – deceptive tactics that try to trick you into doing something dangerous, like installing unwanted software or revealing your personal information (for example, passwords, phone numbers, or credit cards). You may have encountered social engineering in a deceptive download button, or an image ad that falsely claims your system is out of date. Today, we’re expanding Safe Browsing protection to protect you from such deceptive embedded content, like social engineering ads.
In other words, Google is continuing the war against social engineering that started in November. Any embedded content on a page that pretends to act like a trusted entity or tries to trick users into doing sharing personal information will be deemed unsafe.
This may raise some questions among freeware communities. For instance, if a certain page is consistently flooded with fraudulent embedded content, Google Safe Browsing may warn users by displaying a message. If you own such a site and you get flagged, you should troubleshoot with Search Console, as explained by Google in a blog post.
More information is available on Google’s support page.
Milena Dimitrova
An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim
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