Most parked domains now serving malicious content
16 hours ago
- #domain-squatting
- #cybersecurity
- #online-safety
- Direct navigation to websites by typing domain names is now riskier due to parked domains redirecting to scams and malware.
- A study by Infoblox found over 90% of parked domains redirect visitors to malicious content, scams, or malware.
- Parked domains are benign when accessed via VPN or non-residential IP addresses but malicious for residential IP users.
- Typosquatting domains target popular sites like Gmail, Craigslist, and YouTube, with some even configured to intercept emails.
- Infoblox discovered that domain parking services frequently sell traffic to affiliate networks, leading to malicious redirects.
- Google's policy changes may have inadvertently increased risks by reducing ads on parked domains, pushing owners toward more abusive monetization.
- Recommendations to avoid risks include using bookmarks, VPNs, password managers, and browser extensions like NoScript or Malwarebytes Browser Guard.
- Advanced users suggest using firewalls with security features like Zenarmor to block parked domains and employing OpnSense for better security.