Many business owners demand software featuring artificial intelligence for its productivity capabilities. Some hackers exploit this demand by publishing targeted Facebook advertisements to garner business data, using advanced digital marketing tools for nefarious purposes. Discover the details surrounding the fake AI Facebook ads stealing business data below.
What the Ads Promise
A report by Trend Micro examined how cybercriminals craft and publish Facebook business profiles for fake marketing agencies and software companies. They then draft and execute advertisements from these convincing business pages. The ads feature AI products, including large learning language models purporting to increase revenue and marketing success exponentially.
The software products claimed to use Google’s chatbot Bard and another software called Meta AI. Although Google made Bard available in the U.S., Meta AI either doesn’t exist or has yet to launch publicly. The detailed ads featured extensive copy, false figures and percentages, and branded images.
How Fake AI Facebook Ads Steal Business Data
Fake ads primarily target entrepreneurs, business owners, and other professionals who use AI and similar software to increase productivity and workflow. How exactly do these fake AI ads stealing business data work? Explore the process below.
Phase 1: Targeted Ad Appears
Facebook’s advertising system allows marketers to create highly targeted ads based on Facebook’s extensive algorithm. If you search for a specific product on one site, you might discover ads from the same brand or similar products on your Facebook feed. The threat actors leverage this feature to ensure their false ads appear in their target audience’s feed.
Phase 2: Business Rep Clicks Ad
Convincing ads combined with promising marketing and sales statistics look irresistible to even the most cautious business owners. When a business representative sees the ad, they click it. They then navigate to a landing page hosted on a Google website. The page features a download button.
The business owner or representative clicks the download button, anticipating the promising AI-powered software at the end of the download process. This initiates a cloud-storage app like Dropbox or Google Drive to serve the software to the victim’s device.
Phase 3: Malware Download Initiates
The host site cleverly displays an overly simple numerical password that the downloader can input for access. This password helps the software bypass the device’s security measures. The victim uses the packaged installer to open the software.
However, the installer delivers malware rather than anticipated, ground-breaking AI software. The device reboots, completing the installation process. The new malware will then collect and report data to its master, presumably allowing them to use cookies, tokens, and other assets to track the business and any preloaded funds available on Facebook.
How To Avoid Cyber Threats
Avoiding threats, especially those related to fake AI Facebook ads that steal business data, requires a vigilant and cautious approach. Although Facebook has taken measures to hinder hackers’ efforts, you might protect your business from fake AI Facebook ads stealing business data using the following tips:
- Be Skeptical of Incredible Claims: Fake AI ads often make extravagant claims about their products or services. They might promise unrealistically high returns, instant success, or miraculous results. Remember the old adage: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” Maintain a healthy dose of skepticism when encountering such ads. If the claims seem exaggerated or far-fetched, it’s a strong indicator that the ad may be deceptive.
- Research the Products: Before engaging with any advertised product or service, conduct thorough research. Check the legitimacy of the company or brand behind the ad. Look for customer reviews and feedback, especially from reputable sources. If you find very limited or no information about the product, it’s a warning sign. Legitimate businesses typically have a digital footprint with reviews and information available online.
- Beware of Products with Limited Releases: Fake AI ads may promote products with claims of being exclusive or limited in availability. While limited releases can be legitimate marketing strategies, they can also be exploited by scammers to create a sense of urgency and scarcity. Be cautious when encountering such claims. Verify the authenticity of the limited release, and don’t rush into making purchases without due diligence.
- Avoid Products with Simple Keys or Passwords: When considering downloading or purchasing a product, pay attention to the security aspects. If the product or service requires you to use overly simple keys or passwords, it’s a red flag. Legitimate businesses prioritize security and would not compromise on such fundamental aspects. Weak or easily guessable keys and passwords can leave your business vulnerable to cyberattacks and data theft.
In addition to these tips, consider implementing the following practices to enhance your overall cybersecurity:
- Keep Software and Systems Updated: Ensure that your business’s operating systems, software, and security tools are regularly updated with the latest patches and security fixes. Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities.
- Educate Your Team: Train your employees on recognizing and handling potential threats, including phishing attempts and deceptive ads. They should know how to report suspicious activity and whom to contact in case of a security incident.
- Use Security Software: Employ reputable cybersecurity software, such as antivirus programs, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems, to provide an additional layer of defense against online threats.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication for your online accounts and services to enhance security by requiring multiple forms of verification before granting access.
By following these tips and best practices, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to fake AI Facebook ads or other online threats that could compromise your business data and security. Cybersecurity is an ongoing effort, so staying informed and proactive is key to protecting your business in the digital age.
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