Google Search Poses New Risks—Experts Warn of Dangers in What You Search

As online security concerns continue to grow, recent reports highlight the risks tied to everyday searches, particularly when using search engines like Google, Forbes reports.

Two separate issues have raised alarms, one about a growing cyber threat and the other related to unexpected law enforcement attention. Both underline the importance of practicing caution while browsing.

The first warning comes from cybersecurity experts at Sophos, who reported a rising trend of SEO-poisoning attacks. These attacks target niche search terms to push malicious websites to the top of search results. According to Sophos, a recent attack used the search phrase “Are Bengal cats legal in Australia?” to deliver malware. The attackers took advantage of a specific online forum discussing Bengal cats, which led users to click on a malicious link. Once clicked, the link triggered the download of a harmful ZIP file that initiated a series of dangerous actions on the victim’s device.

The malware in question, called GootLoader, has evolved from a tool used by cybercriminals for ransomware attacks to a service platform that steals sensitive information and installs additional malware. The attack is particularly effective on users searching for highly specific or niche information. Experts warn that trusting search results blindly can expose users to risks, as malicious actors continue to find new ways to exploit search engines.

“People need to be vigilant across all parts of the internet,” said Jake Moore, a cybersecurity expert at ESET.

As always, it’s crucial to be cautious about the links you click on, especially when downloading files.

In a completely different scenario, another cautionary tale has emerged regarding a seemingly innocuous search that led to an unexpected visit from law enforcement. In 2013, a couple in Long Island, New York, inadvertently searched for the phrase “pressure cooker bomb” along with the word “backpack.” This combination flagged their search activity as suspicious, and their employer’s IT department reported it to the local authorities. While this was not the result of an automatic system flagging their search, it still led to a police visit, as the authorities followed up on the potential terrorism-related keywords.

Though the story has generated considerable attention, experts point out that it’s not the search itself that poses a risk, but rather the sites or content you access from those searches. Browsing websites that are flagged as dangerous is more likely to draw attention to your online activity. Law enforcement agencies can track browsing history on devices or linked accounts, making it essential for users to be aware of the data they leave behind.