Beware of fake CAPTCHA scams

Cybercriminals are using fake CAPTCHA pages to trick users into downloading malware or compromising their systems. While legitimate CAPTCHAs help websites verify that users are human, malicious CAPTCHA pages serve a different purpose: they create a false sense of security before leading users into a phishing attack, malware installation, or credential theft. This can be found on malicious websites, compromised legitimate websites or displayed by pop-ups. 

How to identify a fake CAPTCHA:

  • Legitimate CAPTCHA systems never require users to copy and paste text or commands into their browser or system.
  • Verify the website URL before you click.
  • They should never ask for login details, payment information or sensitive data.
  • Avoid clicking on pop-ups or links from unsolicited emails or while browsing the internet.

If you encounter a fake CAPTCHA, please reach out to the helpdesk or contact your IT support person.

Fake CAPTCHA instructing users to paste malicious content into Windows Run.

Complete these verification steps

To better prove you are not a robot, please

  1. Press & hold the Windows key + R
  2. In the verification windows, press Ctrl + V
  3. Press Enter on your keyboard to finish.

You will observe and agree:

I am not a robot – reCAPTCHA verification ID: 600245

Perform the steps above to finish verification [verify button]