Search engine optimization (SEO) is a technique that helps websites to rank more often in search engine results, and to rank higher than other websites. Legitimate websites use SEO as easy to remember URLs and relevant keywords. Unfortunately, cybercriminals can also use SEO for their malicious websites.
Some of the ways that cyber criminals use SEO is by adding tons of popular keywords to their website and creating various links that redirect you to their website. Cybercriminals can also pay third parties to visit their website, which makes the website more reputable and popular for search engines. If you visit any of these malicious websites, you may be tempted to download a malicious file or provide your personal information.
Follow these tips to keep you safe from malicious search results: