Online Ads Become Primary Vector for Malware in 2025

A recent report by The Media Trust reveals that online advertisements accounted for over 60% of malware distribution in 2025, surpassing email as the leading channel. This shift in cybercriminal tactics has resulted in significant financial losses, estimated at over $12.5 billion in the U.S. due to ad-borne fraud and malware. The rise of programmatic advertising has facilitated this trend, making it easier for malicious actors to exploit the digital ad ecosystem.