Typosquatting – Typing Wrong URLs Can Put You in Trouble!

The Internet is the home to infinite websites that are visited by online users one moment or the other. However, at times internet users type the wrong URL on their browser and this is where online phishers take the advantage. They build websites having URLs that could be mistakenly typed by the online users. These sites have a similar look and feel as that of the intended website due to which a user is unable to identify the difference.

How does URL Hijacking or Typosquatting Happen?

Suppose, you were trying to type www.abcd.com on the address bar of your browser, but you typed it incorrectly as www.abd.com which leads you to a different website. However, this website showcases similar products and services (at times different too) as of the intended website.

How is URL Hijacking Dangerous?

Typosquatted websites are usually built by phishers and attackers with the motive to trap users and steal their sensitive details like bank account credentials. Also, these websites can lead to downloading different type of malware automatically on your computer system. Other than viruses, keyloggers and rootkits, such websites can also auto-download scareware and adware on your device.

How to Save Yourself from Getting Trapped?

For website owners, it is important to consider the following points:

• At times, URLs are typed as wwwabc.com rather than www.abc.com which makes it important to purchase the ‘www’ variants of your website URL.

• Purchasing the singular and plural version of your website is also a good idea.

• Domain extensions in the form of .net, .org, etc. shall also be purchased.

For end users, the following tips can be useful:

• Always give a double check to the URL address that you type before hitting the enter button.

• Ensure that your computer and mobile device are secured with an internet security software with anti-phishing features. So even if you misspell a URL, it will safeguard your device from online threats.

Let us know if this post was useful by sharing your thoughts in the comments section. Browse Safe! You can also read our post on Brute Force Attacks – How Hackers Guess Your Passwords?