Fake Homebrew and LogMeIn Sites Spread Infostealer Malware via Google Ads in 2025
In October 2025, a sophisticated malvertising campaign exploited Google Ads to distribute infostealing malware via fake Homebrew, LogMeIn, and TradingView websites targeting macOS users and developers. The threat actors registered over 85 convincing domains and lured victims to enter terminal commands that downloaded malware such as AMOS (Atomic macOS Stealer) and Odyssey Stealer. Once executed, these payloads bypassed security controls, harvested browser credentials, cryptocurrency wallets, and sensitive files, and forwarded the stolen data to threat actor-controlled servers. This campaign underscores the effectiveness of ClickFix social engineering techniques and highlights the risks of trust in search advertising. The incident is particularly relevant as infostealer malware continues to evolve with new tactics, including sophisticated social engineering, supply chain targeting, and persistent access capabilities. Organizations face increasing pressure to defend against rapidly shifting malware delivery channels and enforce user education to reduce the likelihood of compromise.
Kill Chain