What Is Clickjacking?

Imagine this scenario: you visit a website, click on a seemingly harmless button, and suddenly find yourself taking actions that you never intended to take. What just happened? You have fallen victim to clickjacking! In this article, we will dive into the world of clickjacking, understand what it is, and how it can affect our online security.

What is Clickjacking?

Clickjacking, also known as a “UI redress attack” or a “UI redressing,” is a malicious technique used by attackers to deceive users into clicking on elements on a webpage without their knowledge or consent. Essentially, it involves overlaying hidden content or buttons on top of an innocuous-looking element, tricking users into clicking on something different than what they intended.

Clickjacking attacks exploit the trust that users have in the appearance and functionality of a webpage. By making elements invisible or transparent, attackers can confuse users into interaction without their awareness. This can lead to unintended consequences, such as performing financial transactions, revealing sensitive information, or even spreading malware.

How Does Clickjacking Work?

Now that we know what clickjacking is, let’s explore the mechanics behind it:

1. Attackers identify a target website or application that contains a vulnerable element.
2. They insert and position an invisible overlay or transparent element on top of the target element.
3. They entice users to click on the transparent overlay, thinking they are clicking on the visible element.
4. When users click on the seemingly visible element, they unknowingly trigger the action associated with the hidden element.
5. Meanwhile, the user remains oblivious to the fact that their actions are being manipulated.

Clickjacking is a serious concern for both individuals and businesses. To protect yourself from clickjacking attacks, consider implementing the following measures:

1. Keep your web browsers and applications up to date to take advantage of the latest security patches and fixes.
2. Be cautious when clicking on unfamiliar links or buttons, especially if they redirect you to external websites or ask for sensitive information.
3. Use reliable anti-malware software to detect and prevent clickjacking attempts.
4. Consider using browser extensions or plugins that provide additional security against clickjacking attacks.
5. Regularly educate yourself about the latest online threats and best practices for staying safe online.

By taking these precautions and being mindful of the risks associated with clickjacking, you can help safeguard your online activities and protect yourself from falling victim to malicious attacks.