Online Ads Become Primary Malware Channel

The Media Trust reported that online ads became the primary channel for malware in 2025, accounting for more than 60% of observed malware and phishing campaigns. It said programmatic-ad-delivered malware grew 45% year-on-year and that AI-driven ad creation and precision targeting, including deepfakes, are compounding the threat. The report urges advertisers, platforms, and regulators to strengthen ad supply-chain controls to protect consumers.