Before You Paste
A fake fix can install real malware
Some cyber scams don't start with an obvious threat. It can begin with a prompt that seems routine:
- “Verify that you are human.”
- “Your browser needs an update.”
- “This document cannot be opened.”
The page then provides simple, step-by-step instructions to solve it: open Windows Run, PowerShell, or Terminal, paste a command, and press Enter. The instructions may look helpful, but they are a warning sign.
What is "ClickFix"
This tactic is known as ClickFix. Attackers use fake troubleshooting steps to persuade you to run a command yourself. That command may install malware, steal information, or give someone access to your computer.
Sometimes a button on the page copies the command automatically, so what you paste may not be what you think you copied.
ClickFix instructions can appear on a website, in an email or attachment, during a fake CAPTCHA, or in a message from someone claiming to provide technical support.
How to Tell What's Legitimate
A real CAPTCHA may ask you to check a box or select images. It should not ask you to open another program or paste a command. Software updates should come through the application, your device settings, an official app store, or another trusted UMBC source, not instructions copied from a pop-up.
What to Do If You See ClickFix Instructions
-
Stop: Do not paste or run the command.
-
Close the page: If the instructions arrived by email, forward the message to security@umbc.edu or select “Report phishing” in Gmail.
- Report: If you already followed the instructions, stop and contact security@umbc.edu. Tell the security team what you were asked to do and what you entered so they can help.
- Verify Updates: If an update may actually be needed, check through the application or your device settings
You do not have to understand the command to recognize the warning sign. If a website or message asks you to paste something into Windows Run, PowerShell, or Terminal, treat the request as suspicious.
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The first draft of the above announcement was generated using AI and edited by the Division of Information Technology Communications and IT teams.