Don't click this on your cellphone or laptop, it's at your own risk!

Don't click this on your cellphone or laptop, it's at your own risk! 

Don't just click on something when you are connected to the internet. One mistake, dangerous files can be downloaded and allow your data to be leaked. Photo: Proofpoint

- Don't just click on things when you're connected to the internet. One mistake, dangerous files can be downloaded and allow your data to be leaked. Especially for Google Chrome browser users, you must be alert if you receive an error message that suddenly appears on the screen. 

Quoting 7News, this new mode is written in the Proofpoint report. This method is played by a number of hacker groups such as ClickFix, ClearFake, and TA571. 

"Something went wrong when displaying this webpage," read one of the fake messages. 

After clicking on the message resembling the overlay, the user will be asked to follow a number of steps. Instead of solving the problem, users actually install malware on the device so that hackers can get in. 

Example of a fake error message containing malware. Photo: Proofpoint

"While a chain of attacks requires significant user interaction to be successful, social engineering is smart enough to present a real problem and solution to a person simultaneously, which can encourage users to take action without considering the risks," said Proofpoint. 

Example of a fake error message containing malware. Photo: Proofpoint

"Users are shown a pop-up text box indicating an error occurred while trying to open the document or web page, and instructions are provided to copy and paste the malicious script," it continued. 

Proofpoint said it had been observing this hacking technique since March 1, 2024, with variants of the technique emerging in April and June. They advise users to report any suspicious activity they discover. Additionally, users are advised to be careful in copying or pasting any unconvincing text or code.