Firecrafters.top Uses Fake Content to Lure Visitors
Our researchers came across Firecrafters.top during an investigation into suspicious websites. This site is identified as a rogue page that encourages spam browser notifications and directs users to other potentially unreliable or hazardous sites.
Most visitors to websites like firecrafters.top typically arrive through redirects initiated by pages utilizing rogue advertising networks. Alternatively, entry can occur through spam notifications, intrusive ads, mistyped URLs, or the presence of installed adware.
It is important to note that the conduct of rogue pages, including the content they host or promote, may be influenced by the visitor's IP address.
Upon visiting the firecrafters.top site, a false video player was displayed, accompanied by instructions to "Press 'Allow' to watch the video." However, instead of gaining access to the purported video, users unwittingly grant firecrafters.top permission to deliver browser notifications.
Rogue websites utilize notifications in the form of ads ads primarily to endorse online scams, untrustworthy or harmful software, and even malware. Consequently, users encountering webpages like firecrafters.top may be exposed to risks such as system infections, serious privacy concerns, financial losses, and identity theft.
How Can Misleading Sites Trick You into Accepting Push Notification Ads?
Misleading sites employ various tactics to trick users into accepting push notification ads. These tactics exploit user trust, curiosity, or lack of awareness. Here are common methods used by misleading sites to deceive users into accepting push notifications:
Fake Alerts or Warnings:
Misleading sites may display fake alerts or warnings claiming that users need to enable push notifications to access content, view a video, or verify their identity. Users may feel compelled to click "Allow" in response to these false messages.
Imitation of System Dialogs:
Some misleading sites mimic system dialogs or notifications that appear to be from the browser or operating system. Users may mistake these imitations for legitimate prompts and grant permission to receive push notifications.
Deceptive Content:
Misleading sites often present enticing or misleading content, such as promising exclusive offers, prizes, or important information. To access this content, users are prompted to enable push notifications, playing on their desire for the promised benefits.
Hidden or Misleading Buttons:
Websites may strategically place the "Allow" button in a way that makes it appear as if users are clicking on a different element, such as a close button or a continue button. This can lead to unintentional acceptance of push notifications.
Social Engineering:
Misleading sites may use social engineering techniques, such as claiming that notifications are necessary for security reasons or that other users have already accepted them. This creates a sense of urgency or social proof to encourage users to enable notifications.
Bait-and-Switch Techniques:
Some sites initially present legitimate content or functionality, but as users engage with the site, they are prompted to enable push notifications for unrelated or deceptive reasons.
