What Is CAPTCHA and How to Use It Safely
Understand what CAPTCHA checks are, why websites use them, and how to avoid fake CAPTCHA tricks used by scammers.
Lesson content
CAPTCHA is a short test on websites that asks you to prove you are a real person — not a computer program. You may be asked to check a box that says “I am not a robot,” pick pictures of traffic lights, or type letters shown in a box.
Legitimate websites use CAPTCHA to block bots and reduce spam. You will often see it when logging in, creating an account, or submitting a form.
Scammers sometimes use fake CAPTCHA pop-ups to trick you into downloading malware or allowing notifications. A real CAPTCHA appears on a website you chose to visit — not as a random pop-up that takes over your screen.
If a CAPTCHA asks you to call a phone number, download software, or pay money, it is not real. Real CAPTCHA tests never ask for payment.
When in doubt, close the browser tab and go back to the website by typing the address yourself or using a bookmark.
Step-by-step actions
- Only complete CAPTCHA on websites you trust and chose to visit.
- If a pop-up appears unexpectedly, close the tab without clicking inside it.
- Do not download anything a CAPTCHA tells you to install.
- Keep your browser and security software up to date.
- Ask a family member or tech helper if you see repeated fake pop-ups.
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