NYT, BBC among websites hit with ransomware in advertisements

At least 10 major websites have been struck with a ransomware attack, in which malicious players infected advertisements on these websites with malware that can encrypt the user’s hard drive and demand payment to unlock it, reports The Guardian.

Advertisement

The “malvertising” campaign was reported by Internet security company Trend Micro, that said the campaign targets the United States, and tens of thousands of users may have been affected in one day. If a user clicked on a malicious advertisement, they were taken to a page that tried to infect their computer.

Internet security company Malwarebytes reports infected websites include The New York Times, BBC, AOL, NFL and Newsweek, among others.

Trend Micro indicates some of the “more popular portals” are no longer carrying the malware, but the campaign is still live.

Citing an analysis by Trustwave, BBC reports the cyberattackers were able to spread the infected advertisements to so many sites by gaining ownership of a web domain that used to provide legitimate advertisements.

More articles on ransomware:

Ransomware attack shuts down 4 Ottawa hospital computers
3 things to know about ransomware
Apple hit with first-ever ransomware attack

Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit

Advertisement

Next Up in Health IT

Advertisement

Comments are closed.