While it’s unlikely you’ll ever get a You. Tube virus from watching videos, real dangers exist on the site. Cyber criminals trick us into clicking links so they can install malicious software on our devices. Falling for such nefarious traps is easier than you think., you Tube is wildly popular among tweens and teens, so parents should take notice.
Then, can you get a virus from YouTube?
Can you get a You, and tube virus? You’re smart for even asking the question. It seems reasonable if viruses existed, You. Tube would be a good place to get one. The site has more than one billion users.
So, can you get a virus from watching videos on YouTube?
Watching a video on the youtube website won’t have you catching any sort of viruses. The main thing you have to worry about is clicking on random links inside the video descriptions.
You may be wondering “Why do YouTube videos have links to malware?”
Links to malicious websites can inhabit a You. Tube video’s description. While most links send you to legitimate sites, some send you to places where your systems is secretly infected with unwanted software. One of these scams targets people searching for full versions of their favorite movies.
Links to malware sites can also be found in a You. Tube video’s comment section. Cyber criminals offer additional video content along with a link. After the viewer clicks the link, they’re prompted to upgrade their video player or other software. The “upgrade” is actually a virus, malware, or other malicious software.
Can a YouTube video take you to a malicious site?
Likely to take you to a malicious site. Links to malware sites can also be found in a You. Tube video’s comment section. Cyber criminals offer additional video content along with a link. After the viewer clicks the link, they’re prompted to upgrade their video player or other software.
Is it safe to open a YouTube video link?
You really shouldn’t open the link, though! Also make sure that you send the person who sent you the video a message to warn them: they haven’t sent the link to you themselves but have probably been hacked. This is what the message looks like:.
It makes it seem as if a friend has sent you a You. Tube video of interest to yourself, but if you click the link your personal details could end up in the hands of internet criminals. By sending a message the hackers are trying to steal your password and infect your computer with a virus.
Why are videos I watch on YouTube being added to TV?
Videos you watch may be added to the TV’s watch history and influence TV recommendations. To avoid this, cancel and sign in to You. Tube on your computer. An error occurred while retrieving sharing information.
Why advertise on YouTube?
, with you Tube ads, reach potential customers and have them take action when they watch or search for videos on You. Tube – and only pay when they show interest.
Video ads can send you to dangerous places too. Opportunistic hackers use botnets, a sort-of robot virus, to infect thousands of devices. The botnet turns your computer into an automated video-watching zombie, using your electricity, your computer’s processing power, and causing wear and tear on your device.