Web Exclusive: Careful where you click, beware of tainted links - KYTX CBS 19 Tyler Longview News Weather Sports

(CNN) -  With most web users growing wise to email phishing schemes, a new trick is on the rise. There are things you can look for to avoid getting snagged  

By now, most of us avoid clicking on links in shady-looking emails, potential phishing attempts to gather personal information or install malware.  So there's another trick growing in popularity, one that web users may not think about.

Whether searching for news on a hot topic like celebrity gossip, a new gadget, or a major world event, or even something as mundane as a recipe, be careful where you click.  That search result could be a tainted link.  "People are always aware that they should be careful with their email and what they click on. That same level of awareness needs to be there when you're on a search engine, or for that matter, on Facebook or something," says Chris Larsen, Blue Coat Systems Malware Chief.

Many companies and entities spend time and money pinpointing how to get their site to the top of a list of search results. That's called search engine optimizing.  Search engine poisoning uses the same strategy for scamming. The major search engines are all on the lookout for it, but to keep your computer safe, you should:

• Keep your searches to trusted sites. When looking for news on a favorite celebrity, for example, stick to the established entertainment sites.  
• Avoid web address endings that don't look familiar -- they could spell trouble.
• Always keep antivirus and malware software up to date.