Online ads weaponised to deliver ‘zero-click’ spyware, researchers say
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Discover-Tech’s Controlium software lets clients mass-profile internet users then covertly hack targets, say researchers at University of Toronto An Israeli advertising agency has been serving millions of online adverts that allow “zero-click” spyware to be used against targets, researchers at a Can
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A darkened office with multiple computer screens displaying digital ad networks and surveillance algorithms, with a Controlium logo prominently featured on one screen.
Caption: When your ads are just as invasive as malware, you've truly disrupted the market.
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Based on the original story on theguardian.com.
Editor's note
The discovery of Controlium's capabilities underscores the dark potential of targeted advertising when leveraged as a surveillance tool. It's a stark reminder that the line between adtech and state-level espionage is perilously thin, raising critical questions about digital privacy and the ethical use of technology.
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Panel 1
(a) What the subject of this story actually is and does: Discover-Tech’s Controlium software is a sophisticated tool that enables advertisers to profile internet users and covertly install spyware on their devices through online ads. (b) The ONE real irony or absurdity in the news: The irony is that a tool designed to enhance advertising and user engagement is being used to secretly exploit and surveil individuals. (c) The single funniest observation that becomes the highlight: The highlight is the absurdity of turning a tool meant for targeted advertising into a weapon for covert surveillance, with the twist of the ad copy itself revealing the true nature of the software's intentions. ---
Panel 2
A dimly lit room with computer screens displaying a digital ad targeting software. A researcher, typing on a keyboard, examines a screen showing Controlium's ad-serving interface.
Researcher: Let's see if this Controlium software can really profile and hack users with just an ad click...
Panel 3
A close-up of a user's computer screen, showing a targeted ad from an Israeli agency. The ad claims to offer on a product. Voiceover (Researcher)
Narrator: personalized discounts
Voiceover: Looks like a typical ad, but let's dig deeper...
Panel 4
The researcher's face is shown in profile, looking solemn. A pop-up message appears on the screen, revealing the true intentions of the ad:
Narrator: Congratulations, you have been hacked. We now know everything about you.
Researcher: I guess 'personalized discounts' means something entirely different now...
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