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- Malware & exploits
Fake CAPTCHA checks are being used to do more than hide phishing pages. Attackers are turning the familiar “prove you’re human” step into a gateway for malware downloads, malicious browser notifications, and commands that victims are tricked into running themselves, according to Barracuda. The company found CAPTCHA abuse in 43% of the phishing-kit attacks it examined during 2025. These checks help attackers gain users’ trust, filter visitors, and conceal malicious content from automated security tools. … More →…
Keeping malware out
- Keep operating systems, browsers and plugins patched – most malware arrives through known holes.
- Block macros and scripts from the internet, and let only approved software run where you can.
- Watch endpoint alerts for new persistence: scheduled tasks, services and run keys.
More helpNCSC: mitigating malware and ransomware attacks (opens in a new tab)
Defender’s notebook
The attacker technique behind this story, in MITRE’s terms – and what to check in your own estate.
User Execution
ExecutionWhat a defender checks
- Block programs running from user-writable folders with application control or ASR rules.
- Warn staff about fake CAPTCHA and "paste this command" tricks.
- Hunt for PowerShell or mshta started from the Run dialog.
Build the skillBlue Team Analyst · Endpoint Monitoring
Phishing
Initial AccessWhat a defender checks
- Search mail flow for the sender, subject and links, and pull every copy from mailboxes.
- Check who clicked or replied, and what signed in afterwards.
- Block the sender and URLs, and tell staff what to look for.
Build the skillBlue Team Analyst · Email & Phishing Investigation
© 2026 The MITRE Corporation. This work is reproduced and distributed with the permission of The MITRE Corporation. MITRE ATT&CK and ATT&CK are registered trademarks of The MITRE Corporation.
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