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CBI Warns Of Malicious Online Advertising

DENVER (AP) — The Colorado Bureau of Investigation is warning online shoppers and Web surfers about malicious advertising aimed at hacking into computers so scam artists can steal personal and financial information.

The bureau's Identity Theft Unit says "malvertising" often offers deals or coupons that seem too good to be true. By clicking on the ad, downloading the coupon or even hovering over the ad, Web surfers could be allowing hackers to install malware on their computer, tablet or smartphone.

Such ads are more common during the holiday shopping season. Investigators say it is important to avoid all ads that appear overly promising.

(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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