Lonely Planet identifies 'malvertisement'

Lonely Planet has released a graphic image of the ‘malvertisement’ which cybercriminals used to infiltrate New Zealand online marketplace Trade Me last week.

This malicious advertisement - ‘malvertisement’ - is a combination of malicious software and advertising, where cybercriminals use an online advertisement to distribute malicious software.

Lonely Planet has urged businesses to be on the lookout for this particular advertisement design, and avoid clicking on the ad or any invitation they receive to download a program purporting to be “anti-virus” software, as it carries a virus.

This fake ad was either stolen or a copy of an old banner advertisement that Lonely Planet has not used since February 2010.

Legitimate examples of Lonely Planet’s current online advertising can be viewed at lonelyplanet.com.

Lonely Planet encourages all media businesses to be vigilant checking the bona fides of advertisers, to protect their customers from cybercriminals.

Questions and concerns about the legitimacy of Lonely Planet’s advertising should be emailed to: infringements@lonelyplanet.com.au