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Beware of the Fake CAPTCHA scam “I’m Not a Robot”
Fake CAPTCHA scam...Most of us have clicked an “I’m not a robot” box while visiting a website. It feels routine—one quick check before we continue.
Scammers are taking advantage of that familiarity. A scam known as Click Fix uses fake verification screens to persuade people to run harmful commands on their computers. Although it isn’t brand-new, it remains a threat worth sharing with your family, friends, and fellow business owners.
What Does the Scam Look Like?
The image shared with this post shows a verification window asking visitors to use the Windows key, open the Run window, paste something, and press Enter.
Those instructions are the warning sign. Do not follow them.
A legitimate CAPTCHA may ask you to check a box, select pictures, or complete an audio challenge. It should never require you to open your computer’s Run window, paste a command, or install software to prove you are human.
What Happens If You Follow the Instructions?
The fake page can secretly place a malicious command on your clipboard. Following its directions can execute that command and download malware.
Depending on the attack, that malware may steal saved passwords or give criminals remote access to your computer. Microsoft has documented Click Fix campaigns delivering both information-stealing software and remote-access tools.
Why Small Business Owners Should Pay Attention
Think about everything you access from your business computer: email, your website, customer messages, social media, and payment services.
Protecting that computer helps protect the business you have worked hard to build. Share this warning with anyone who helps manage your accounts, even if they only occasionally answer messages or update your website.
One useful rule to remember:
If a website asks you to run a computer command to prove you are human, stop and close the page.
What If You Already Followed the Instructions?
Seeing the screen alone does not establish that your computer is infected. If you pasted and ran its command, take action:
Disconnect the affected computer from the internet.
Run a full scan with trusted, updated security software.
From a separate, trusted device, change passwords for important accounts.
Contact a trusted computer professional for help assessing and cleaning the device.
These steps can help limit damage, but a clean scan alone should not be treated as proof that everything is safe.
Take a Moment Before You Click
Scammers count on familiar designs making us comfortable enough to follow directions without questioning them.
At RS Web De Sign’s, I believe helping small businesses includes sharing practical warnings like this. Take a moment to read unexpected instructions and encourage others to do the same.
Proving you are human should never require giving an unknown website control over your computer.
At RS Web De Sign’s, I help small business owners create affordable, professional websites that work alongside their social media presence.
As an independent web designer, I provide personal, one-on-one service and work directly with each client.
Helping Small Businesses Make Impressions Online Since 2008.
Visit www.rswebdesigns.net to learn more about website design, updates, and maintenance.
"It Doesn't Have to Be Complicated."
— RS Web De Sign's
Keywords: Scam Alerts, Online Safety, Click Fix, CAPTCHA, Small Business Security professional website design, social media marketing, small business SEO, website credibility, affordable web design, RS Web De Sign's
