Link: https://old.reddit.com/r/LifeProTips/comments/1ulsudy/lpt_never_click_the_top_sponsored_google_results/

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The original was posted on /r/lifeprotips by /u/Individual-Gas5276 on 2026-07-02 20:00:13+00:00.

This is currently one of the most common ways people get their computers infected and their accounts stolen, even if they consider themselves tech-savvy.

When you Google common, free software (like VLC, OBS, Zoom, or even Audacity), the very first link at the top of the page is often an ad with a "Sponsored" tag.

Hackers buy these Google Ad slots. They create a website that looks 100% identical to the real software's website. They even use URLs that look nearly perfect. Because it's a paid ad, Google temporarily places it above the actual, legitimate website.

If you download the installer from the sponsored link, it usually installs the real software you wanted so you don't get suspicious. But in the background, it silently installs an "Info-stealer". This malware instantly scrapes your browser for saved passwords and session cookies. With your session cookies, hackers can log into your email or bank accounts, completely bypassing your 2-Factor Authentication (2FA).

The solution:

1. Always scroll past anything marked Sponsored or Ad.
2. Only click the first organic (unpaid) search result.
3. Wikipedia is a great tool for this: if you aren't sure what the official URL for a piece of software is, look up the software on Wikipedia and click the official website link in their info box.

Don't trust search engine ads for software downloads.

Or like… ever.