A drive-by download refers to the act of a user unintentionally downloading malware onto their device without their knowledge or explicit consent. This type of cyberattack exploits vulnerabilities in web browsers, plugins, or operating systems to install malware silently when a user visits a compromised or malicious website.
How do drive-by downloads occur?
When a user visits a compromised website or link, malicious code scans the user’s system for security weaknesses in the web browser, plugins such as Java, or the operating system itself. Cybercriminals use several methods to get users to unintentionally give the malicious code a way to exploit their device’s vulnerabilities.
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Compromised websites
Hackers and cybercriminals often inject malicious code into legitimate websites or create their own malicious sites with exploitative designs used to lure users into authorizing infected downloads.
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Phishing
Phishing is another common delivery method for malicious downloads. Typically, hackers will pose as a reputable organization to steal sensitive information from their targets. A phishing email will pretend to be from a bank and convince users to click a link that can lead to a drive-by download.
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Exploit kits
Cybercriminals utilize exploit kits, which are collections of pre-packaged exploits that target specific vulnerabilities, to take advantage of software vulnerabilities. Simply visiting a compromised website allows a drive-by download to occur and
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Malvertising
Malvertising refers to online advertisements that contain malicious code. When clicked or even viewed, these codes can lead to drive-by downloads.
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Silent download
If a vulnerability is found, the malicious code executes automatically, downloading and installing malware without any user interaction or notification.
How do you prevent drive-by downloads?
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Patch management
Keeping your operating system, web browsers, and plugins up-to-date with the latest security patches helps prevent malware from exploiting vulnerabilities. An automated patch management solution enables an organization’s IT team to simplify their patching process by detecting missing updates and scheduling the distribution of security patches.
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Software management
For enterprises with a lot of endpoint devices, employing a software management solution allows IT teams to take inventory and exert control over the software installed on corporate devices. Cybercriminals can make fake programs look legitimate, making it easier to slip by users’ notice so being able to authorize and deploy necessary software helps prevent malware from being installed.
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Employing an antivirus solution
A reputable antivirus and anti-malware software can detect malicious code and block suspicious activity. Utilizing an antivirus solution can help protect sensitive business data.
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Browser security settings
Browser security settings allow users to enable features like pop-up blockers and disable unnecessary plugins. While the specific settings may vary depending on the browser, you can usually find these security features in the settings tab.
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User awareness
User awareness plays a significant role in protecting endpoint devices. Educating users about the signs of a potentially malicious website will help prevent drive-by download attacks.
Conclusion
Drive-by downloads utilize manipulative social engineering tactics, vulnerabilities in unpatched software or operating systems, and misleading websites or links to infect devices without the user’s awareness. By understanding how these attacks work, IT professionals and users can better avoid exposing their devices in their IT environment to drive-by downloads. By implementing robust security practices, individuals and organizations can better protect themselves against malware attacks and protect their devices and data from cyberattacks.
