How an incorrect Google search could compromise your data and lead to a call from law enforcement.

Google is probably the online one It’s the service we all use at least once a day, whether it’s to search for a query, find something to buy, or anything else.

Although search results may not be exactly what you want these days, they are generally safe to use. That’s a discussion for another time.

What we have today are the hidden risks inherent in Google search; These risks not only endanger your device and personal data, but also bring law enforcement to your doorstep. This is not an exaggeration and you will learn how to do it below.

I’M GIVING AWAY A $500 GIFT CARD FOR THE HOLIDAY

Woman typing on laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The pitfalls of niche queries

cyber security company Sophos published An urgent warning on the website asking people not to type six words into search engines. Google “Are Bengal Cats legal in Australia?” Those who asked were reported to have had their personal information stolen after clicking on fake links that appeared near the top of the page.

It’s unclear why the hackers launched this unusually specific campaign. The only reason I can think of is because they target the Australian demographic and ask “Are Bengal Cats legal in Australia?” Ranking on the Google search engine results page is easy.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

She risks being targeted by people investigating whether Bengal cats are legal in Australia (they are, in case you’re wondering). GootLoader malware. This malware spreads through SEO tactics, where hackers make infected links appear higher in search results. When people search for terms such as legal documents or agreements, they may click on these dangerous links that lead to websites that host a ZIP file containing malicious code.

Once this malware infects a computer, it opens the door to a second, more dangerous piece of malware called GootKit, designed to steal personal information and allow hackers to remotely control the device.

Image of Google search engine (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

CONFESSIONS OF THE VICTIM WHO WAS DECEIVED BY CYBER VICTIMS

Hackers aren’t the only ones tracking your Google searches

While hackers target Google searches, they’re not the only ones tracking what you search for. Law enforcement, your IT department of the workplace and your telecom provider can also see your calling activity. One couple reportedly learned this the hard way when police showed up at their door searching for the word “pressure cooker bomb” along with the word “backpack.”

Michele Catalano and her husband from Long Island, New York, were surfing the internet for some everyday items, but they quickly found themselves in unexpected trouble. Michele, a freelance writer, wanted to buy a pressure cooker, and her husband wanted a new backpack. They each searched for the items individually.

But two days later, her husband searched for both items on his work computer just before leaving for work. His former employer’s IT staff flagged these calls and reported them to the local Suffolk County Police Department. Several black SUVs showed up at the couple’s home a short time later, and police wanted to make sure there were no security threats.

TAKE FOX BUSINESS IN ACTION BY CLICKING HERE

A person searching on Google (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM TECH SUPPORT SCAMS

5 ways to stay safe when searching on Google

1. Avoid clicking ads and suspicious links: Be wary of ads or unfamiliar links at the top of search results. Hackers often use SEO poisoning to place dangerous links in prominent locations. Therefore, try to stick to reliable websites and known sources.

The best way to protect yourself from malicious links that install malware and potentially access your private information is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection also keeps your personal information and digital assets safe by alerting you to phishing emails and ransomware scams. Get my picks for the 2024 best antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

2. Use VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, making it harder for hackers, ISPs, or other third parties to monitor your online activities and searches. Many sites can read your IP address and, depending on privacy settings, display the city you are corresponding with. A VPN will hide your IP address to show an alternative location. For the best VPN software, check out my expert review of the best VPNs for private web browsing on your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices

3. Enable SafeSearch: Google’s SafeSearch filters help block obscene or potentially harmful content. It is especially useful for filtering unsafe connections and improving search security.

4. Limit personal data on Google: Adjust your Google account privacy settings to minimize data collection, including search history, location tracking, and ad personalization. You can access these settings in the “My Activity” section of your Google account.

5. Use private browsing or clear your history: Using Incognito Mode or clearing your browsing history regularly can help reduce tracking of your searches. While it doesn’t hide your activity from ISPs or law enforcement, it does limit the data Google can store on your device.

‘UNSUBSCRIBE’ EMAIL SCAM TARGETS AMERICANS

Kurt’s important takeaway

Bad actors are always trying to take advantage of whatever digital medium you use, whether it’s social media or Google search. It’s about how malicious websites that put users at risk rank on the first page of Google. Although the search giant claims to be prioritizing useful content this year, the ease with which hackers manipulate search results suggests Google is doing the opposite. I don’t hold out much hope for Google improving its platform, but you can stay safe by avoiding suspicious links and being more careful.

CLICK TO REACH THE FOX NEWS APPLICATION

Do you think Google’s search results have become more or less reliable over the years? Let us know by writing to . cyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter at: cyberguy.com/Newsletter

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover

Follow Kurt on his social channels

Answers to the most frequently asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.