A trojan (derived from the term trojan horse) is malicious software that tricks users by appearing legitimate. Unlike viruses, trojans don't self-replicate. Instead, they hide harmful code inside seemingly innocent programs. Cybercriminals use trojans to gain unauthorized access to computers and networks.
How trojans affect digital advertising
In the context of digital advertising, trojans pose a serious threat to advertisers and publishers. They can generate fake clicks on ads and create artificial traffic to websites. This invalid traffic drains advertising budgets and skews campaign metrics.
Some trojans specifically target advertising networks and analytics platforms. They may create virtual browsers that automatically click ads or simulate user behavior. This makes detection particularly challenging.
Common types of advertising trojans
Several types of trojans specifically target advertising systems:
- Click fraud trojans that automatically click on ads
- Traffic generation trojans that create fake website visits
- Form-filling trojans that submit fake lead generation data
How to protect against trojans
Protecting against trojans requires a multi-layered security approach. Start with updated antivirus software and firewalls. Regular security scans help detect potential threats.
For advertisers, specialized click fraud prevention tools add another layer of protection. These tools can identify traffic patterns associated with trojan activity. They help block invalid clicks before they impact your campaigns.
Signs your ads might be targeted by trojans
Watch for these warning signs of trojan-based click fraud:
- Sudden spikes in click volume
- Unusually high bounce rates
- Clicks from suspicious geographic locations
- Multiple clicks from the same IP addresses
- Clicks occurring in unusual patterns or at specific intervals
