ClickFix Scams: How Cybercriminals Exploit Your Urge to Solve Problems Fast

This October, in celebration of 2025 Cybersecurity Awareness Month and its theme “Stay Safe Online,” we’ll be sharing weekly resources — including blog posts, training videos, and infographics. Each release will spotlight key topics to help strengthen your internal cybersecurity campaigns.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, we’re conditioned to fix problems with a click. A pop-up says your computer is infected? Click to clean it. An email warns your account is compromised? Click to secure it. You need to verify that you are a human. Click this button and follow the instructions. But what if that “fix” is the real threat?

Welcome to the world of ClickFix scams — a growing cyber threat that preys on urgency, fear, and our desire for quick solutions.

Watch the video below to learn about ClickFix scams like CAPTCHA.

What Is a ClickFix Scam?

A ClickFix scam is a type of cyberattack that tricks users into clicking a link or button on the screen which populates malicious code to the user’s clipboard. The user then unknowingly executes this code to “fix” a fake problem. These scams often appear as:

• Fake antivirus alerts
• Bogus tech support pop-ups
• Phishing emails claiming suspicious activity
• Malicious browser extensions or application downloads
• Fake CAPTCHA challenges

The goal? To get you to act — before you think twice. 

Anatomy of a ClickFix Scam

Let’s break down how these scams typically work:

1. The Trigger: You see an urgent message - “Your system is infected!”, “Unusual login detected!” or “Download Here!”
2. The Hook: A button or link urges you to “Fix Now,” “Verify Account,” or “Prove you are a Human,” often including detailed instructions to follow.

3. The Payload: Clicking places malicious commands on the clipboard, which the user then executes — often in the Windows Run dialog box, Windows Terminal, or Windows PowerShell dialog to install malware, grant remote access, or connect to a phishing site. 

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4. The Outcome: Your data is stolen, your device is compromised, or you’re extorted for money.

It’s a digital bait-and-switch, and it works alarmingly well.

Why These Scams Work so Well

Click-fix scams succeed because they exploit both psychology and technology:

Psychological Triggers:

• Fear: “Your files will be deleted in 5 minutes!”
• Urgency: “Act now to avoid suspension.”
• Authority: Messages appear to come from trusted parties.

Technical Deception:

• Spoofed websites that look legitimate
• Fake system dialogs that mimic real alerts
• Remote access tools disguised as support software

These tactics create a sense of panic, pushing users to act without verifying.

Real-World Examples

• The Fake Tech Support Call: A user receives a call from “Microsoft” warning of a virus. They’re told to install a remote access tool. The scammer then locks the system and demands payment to unlock it.
• The Phishing Email: A message claims your email account was accessed from another country. The “secure your account” link leads to a fake login page that steals your credentials.
• The Malicious Attachment: A threat actor sends phishing emails containing a ZIP file that, when opened, includes an HTML file that redirects users to a fake website where the ClickFix lure is hosted
   

Pro Tip: Legitimate companies will never ask you to install software or share passwords via unsolicited messages.

What to Do If You've Clicked

If you think you've fallen for a click-fix scam:

1. Run a full antivirus scan using trusted software.
2. Change your passwords, especially for sensitive accounts.
3. Monitor your accounts for unusual activity.
4. Report the scam to your IT team or a cybersecurity authority like the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

How to Stay Protected

• ✅ Keep your software updated to patch vulnerabilities.
• ✅ Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.
• ✅ Educate yourself and others about common scams.
• ✅ Install reputable security tools and browser extensions.
• ✅ Be skeptical — if something feels off, it probably is.

Click-fix scams are dangerous because they feel helpful. They offer a solution — but deliver a problem. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid falling into their trap.