Beware: Fake CAPTCHA Sites Hijack Clipboards to Steal Sensitive Info

As cyber threats continue to evolve, a new tactic has emerged that targets unsuspecting users through fake CAPTCHA websites. These malicious sites hijack your clipboard to install information stealers, putting your sensitive data at risk. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of this threat and provide guidance on how to protect yourself.

What are CAPTCHA websites?

CAPTCHA (Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart) is a security measure designed to differentiate between human and automated access to a website. It typically involves a visual challenge, such as recognizing characters or objects, to verify that the user is human.

The threat: Fake CAPTCHA websites

Malicious actors have created fake CAPTCHA websites that mimic the real thing. These sites are designed to trick users into interacting with them, allowing the attackers to hijack their clipboard. Once the clipboard is compromised, the attackers can install information stealers, such as malware or viruses, on the user’s device.

How does the attack work?

The attack typically begins with a phishing email or message that directs the user to a fake CAPTCHA website. The site may appear legitimate, with a similar design and layout to a real CAPTCHA page. However, once the user interacts with the site, the attackers use JavaScript to access the user’s clipboard.

The clipboard is a temporary storage area that holds data, such as text or images, that the user has copied or cut. By accessing the clipboard, the attackers can steal sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card numbers, or personal data.

Consequences of the attack

The consequences of falling victim to this attack can be severe. The attackers can use the stolen information to:

• Gain unauthorized access to the user’s accounts, such as email, social media, or banking
• Steal sensitive data, such as personal identifiable information (PII) or financial information
• Install malware or viruses on the user’s device, leading to further compromise and data theft

How to protect yourself

To protect yourself from this threat, follow these best practices:

1. Be cautious with links: Avoid clicking on links from unsolicited emails or messages. If you need to access a website, type the URL directly into your browser.
2. Verify the website: Before interacting with a CAPTCHA website, verify that it is legitimate. Check the URL, look for spelling mistakes, and ensure that the site has a valid SSL certificate.
3. Use a reputable antivirus: Install and regularly update antivirus software to detect and prevent malware infections.
4. Keep your software up-to-date: Ensure that your operating system, browser, and other software are updated with the latest security patches.
5. Use a clipboard manager: Consider using a clipboard manager that can detect and prevent malicious access to your clipboard.
6. Monitor your accounts: Regularly monitor your accounts for suspicious activity, and report any unauthorized access to the relevant authorities.

Conclusion

Fake CAPTCHA websites that hijack your clipboard to install information stealers are a serious threat to online security. By being aware of this threat and taking the necessary precautions, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this attack. Remember to be cautious with links, verify websites, and use reputable antivirus software to stay safe online.

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Sources:

• Malwarebytes: “Fake CAPTCHA websites hijack your clipboard to install information stealers”