Understanding Drive-by Download Attacks

This document describes drive-by download (watering hole) attacks in which compromised websites, advertisements, or links silently deliver malware (e.g., Trojans, exploit kits, MageCart skimmers) to user endpoints, enabling subsequent actions such as ransomware, data exfiltration, or cryptojacking; it explains attack steps, common payloads, historical examples, and recommended protections including patch management, browser security/antivirus, and user awareness training.