Security Warning: Malicious Software Can Be a Click Away

Here is an example of a website that has a malicious program. I have "Silicon Valley Moms Blog" on my Google Alerts. For some reason, this website came up in my Google Alert email. I saw Mashable and thought of one of my favorite Techie sites called Mashable

http://informxyzzz.blogspot.com/2008/09/mashable_21.html" (name was changed...)

When I clicked on that link, I got this warning on my screen from Google:

Reported Attack Site!      
This web site at inforxxy.blogspot.com has been reported as an attack site and has been blocked based on your security preferences. Attack sites try to install programs that steal private information, use your computer to attack others, or damage your system. Some attack sites intentionally distribute harmful software, but many are compromised without the knowledge or permission of their owners.

I was thrilled that Google had already vetted that site because I should not have clicked over on that link anyway. If I would taken a second I would of realized that this is the correct url for Mashable:

http://mashable.com/

So it was suspicious to start. I did click on the warning page for more information. The next page details are listed below, looks like Google not only searches pages for keywords - but it also searches for malicious sites.

This is a good lesson to think before you click!

I found more info on Spyware and Adware on the Google Site (with the real Google URL).