As children increasingly use the internet for learning, communication and entertainment, they may encounter a growing range of online threats, including fake CAPTCHA scams. A CAPTCHA is a verification check used by websites to confirm that a user is human, often through prompts such as “Verify you’re human.” Cybercriminals may imitate these checks to trick users into downloading files, installing software, or copying and pasting malicious commands.
These fake prompts can lead to malware infections, password theft, compromised accounts and unauthorised access to devices.
Parents and guardians should encourage children to:
- Never download files or install software from a CAPTCHA prompt.
- Never copy and paste commands provided by a verification message.
- Stop and check whenever a CAPTCHA gives unusual instructions.
- Avoid interacting with suspicious websites or pop-ups.
- Seek guidance from a parent, guardian or trusted adult when unsure.
Parents, guardians and caregivers should remind children that legitimate CAPTCHA checks should not require them to download files, run commands or install software.