New Internet Scam Fakes Innocent, But Could Cost Us Big in Iowa

We've all been through this process online. You're trying to download a recipe, access a news article, or stream a video. Suddenly, a familiar prompt appears — a CAPTCHA asking you to prove you're human. You might be asked to click on traffic lights, bridges, or motorcycles in a grid, or check a simple box that says, "I’m not a robot."

It seems harmless, right? But, that's when the hack occurs, according to MSN.

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Cybercriminals have recently devised two new scams that use fake CAPTCHAs to trick unsuspecting users. One steals your information through a double-click trick, while the other hijacks your clipboard to install malware. Both are highly deceptive and can lead to major losses, in both finances and private information.

The Double-Clickjacking Scam

In one method, hackers use a fake CAPTCHA that asks you to double-click instead of the usual single click. Here’s how it works, according to tomsguide.com. The first click appears to close a window, while the second click unknowingly performs a dangerous action. This could be approving OAuth permissions, changing security settings, or even confirming a financial transaction. This sneaky tactic exploits trusted websites and can allow hackers to access your accounts, authorize money transfers, or even disable security protections.

The Clipboard Hijacking Scam

In the second method, scammers use a fake CAPTCHA to convince users to follow instructions similar to:

• Press and hold the Windows Key + R.
• Press Ctrl + V.
• Press Enter to finish.

These steps may seem harmless, but here’s the trick — the website has secretly copied a malicious command to your clipboard. According to malwarebytes.com, when you paste and run that command, your computer unknowingly downloads malware designed to steal sensitive information such as saved passwords, credit card details, and even cryptocurrency wallet funds.

Why Are These Attacks So Dangerous?

Both scams rely heavily on social engineering — manipulating you into taking actions that seem routine. Because CAPTCHAs are so common, most people don’t think twice when asked to click a button or follow simple instructions. I mean you're not a robot, right? Even worse, these scams bypass many existing browser security measures. The double-click method exploits something called a timing trick, while the clipboard attack takes advantage of JavaScript functions that overwrite your clipboard content.

How to Stay Safe

While browser makers are working on improved protections, here’s how you can protect yourself right now:

• Be wary of unusual CAPTCHA requests: Legitimate CAPTCHAs rarely ask you to double-click or enter keyboard commands. If one does, stop immediately.
• Avoid suspicious websites: Be cautious with sites offering free downloads, giveaways, or hard-to-find content.
• Use strong antivirus protection: Reliable security software can detect and block malicious websites and suspicious clipboard activity.
• Clear your clipboard if you suspect foul play: Copying some harmless text can overwrite malicious (and hidden) clipboard content.
• Review app permissions regularly: Hackers may exploit OAuth or other authorization tools to maintain access to your accounts.
• Stay informed: Knowing about these tactics is your best defense and can prevent you from unknowingly falling into one of these hacker traps.

These new scams show just how creative cybercriminals have become at getting your info and cash. By turning simple CAPTCHA tests into tools for deception, they take advantage of our routine online interactions. As always, it's important to stay alert to these increasingly sophisticated threats and keep yourself (and your dollars) safe online.