Fake pop-ups pose bigger online threat

Fake internet pop-ups are becoming increasingly sophisticated and pose a much greater threat to online firms, an expert has warned.

Tony Neate, managing director of Get Safe Online, said it is becoming more difficult than ever to gauge the threat presented by pop-ups as they continue to develop.

He advised online firms to install pop-up blockers on their operating systems in order to minimise the risk presented by increasingly advanced online hazards.

A recent survey of students by researchers at the North Carolina State University found that 63 per cent of respondents were fooled by fake pop-ups and were unable to differentiate them from genuine messages.

Clicking on bogus pop-ups can result in spyware and other harmful software being downloaded on to users’ operating systems.

Dr Michael Wogalter, who conducted the study said: “This study demonstrates how easy it is to fool people on the web. Be suspicious when things pop up - don’t click OK - close the box instead.”