A malicious website is a system that tries to install malware in an attempt to disrupt the normal operating procedures of a computer. It also tends to gather your personal information at the same time.
If proper measures are not taken to prevent this from happening, the malware program will take total control of a victim's device.
In a situation of a drive-by download, the site will attempt to install applications on your computer without obtaining permission.
Therefore, malicious websites are identified to be sites that compromise the security of an individual computer.
Most people are not aware of the fact that you don't have to download the malicious attachments and drive-by downloads in order for them to still interfere with the security systems of your computer.
On that note, the dark web is home to several sites that carry attachments which pose a high risk to individual computer systems if proper measures are not taken in advance.
Sometimes, malware can be installed even when you're doing nothing more than visiting a website.
Regardless of the type of computer in use, strong internet security is necessary on the dark web.
What Is a Malicious Website?
Put simply, a malicious site usually looks like a legitimate website, and sometimes it might request your permission to install software that would appear to meet your computer's needs.
A good example is when an individual watches a tutorial video on the dark web and he/she gets a notification to install a video player in order to watch the content.
That download might finally end up compromising the user's device and leaking sensitive information in the process.
What Is a Drive-By Download?
This is a common malware tactic especially affecting individuals who use the dark web. Drive-by downloads usually occur when the target is simply browsing a website or opening an email.
The message usually entails misleading information which presents itself in a pop-up window. Then codes of the malware might get installed, making it hard to get rid of.
Safe Browsing on the Dark Web
The dark web is full of spammers and scammers. Therefore, it is necessary to lay down security measures to ensure that your computer does not get infected with malware.
The following best-practices will help keep cyber attackers at bay when you're browsing the dark web.
- Do not open emails or messages that appear suspicious or contain attachments.
Delivered via email and other communication platforms, spam messages usually contain attachments which, when opened, can install certain codes on your computer to gather personal information.
Messages from unknown senders should also be avoided, as they could be part of a phishing campaign.
On the dark web, there are many ways in which hackers and spammers leave behind their attachments with the aim of getting innocent users' attention.
Some of the comments left in certain darknet markets might contain links that redirect you to install certain malware systems.
- Don't install video players from websites.
It is also necessary to avoid installing codecs or video players off of suspicious websites. If a website tries to install a codec, it is important to close the tab and look for information elsewhere.
- Keep your computer's software up-to-date.
This will ensure that known traps laid by scammers and spammers are solved since the manufacturers have patched security flaws and developed new techniques to solve the issue.
Antivirus and antispyware programs should also be up-to-date and running full-time.
- Use internet security software
Use programs like Norton Security Standard or Malwarebytes to safeguard your device from malware.
When you are suspicious of any URL, antimalware software programs will help you identify legitimate links from dangerous ones.
Some links inside email messages lead to phishing sites and if one is not keen, he or she might end up losing personal information to hackers.
Disclaimer:
The articles and content found on Dark Web News are for general information purposes only and are not intended to solicit illegal activity or constitute legal advice. Using drugs is harmful to your health and can cause serious problems including death and imprisonment, and any treatment should not be undertaken without medical supervision.
You need to enable JavaScript to vote
