ClickFix Scams: The Social Engineering Threat Targeting Small Businesses in 2025

Published: September 20, 2025 | Last updated: September 20, 2025

Security researchers have documented a notable increase in ClickFix attacks throughout 2025. This social engineering technique manipulates users into running malicious commands on their own computers and has become increasingly common in the threat landscape, warranting attention from business owners and IT professionals.

Understanding the ClickFix Phenomenon

ClickFix represents a fundamental change in social engineering tactics. Unlike traditional malware that requires sophisticated technical exploits, these attacks succeed by exploiting something far more predictable: human behavior and our natural inclination to resolve technical problems.

The attack methodology is relatively straightforward. Users encounter what appears to be a legitimate error message or security notification on a website. The message claims that an issue with their browser, camera access, or system security requires immediate attention. To “fix” the problem, users are instructed to copy a provided command and paste it into their computer's Run dialog box or PowerShell terminal.

Users may not realize that this command is a malicious script designed to download and install malware on their system. According to recent ESET research, the technique has proven effective enough to become the second most common attack vector behind traditional phishing.

The 2025 Surge: Current Statistics

Recent data reveals the concerning growth of ClickFix attacks throughout 2025:

These statistics reflect the growing adoption of ClickFix techniques. The success rate of ClickFix attacks has attracted both opportunistic criminals and sophisticated state-sponsored groups from North Korea, Iran, and Russia.

How ClickFix Attacks Unfold

The typical ClickFix attack follows a predictable but effective pattern:

Initial Contact

Attackers begin by compromising legitimate websites or creating convincing replicas of popular services. Recent campaigns have targeted streaming sites, fake Google Meet pages, and even impersonated government services like the U.S. Social Security Administration.

The Deception

Users encounter a pop-up or error message claiming a technical issue requires immediate action. Common scenarios include:

The Social Engineering Hook

The attack exploits several psychological triggers:

• Urgency: Messages suggest immediate action is required
• Authority: Official-looking branding and terminology
• Helpfulness: Providing a “simple solution” to a technical problem
• Trust: Using familiar interfaces and well-known brand aesthetics

The Execution

Users are presented with step-by-step instructions to “resolve” the issue:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog
2. Copy the provided “fix” command
3. Paste it into the Run box
4. Press Enter to execute

Users may not realize they've just granted attackers access to their system.

Recent Evolution and Targeting

The ClickFix landscape has developed throughout 2025, with several notable developments:

State-Sponsored Adoption

Nation-state actors have begun incorporating ClickFix into their arsenals. Notable examples include:

Industry-Specific Targeting

Recent campaigns have demonstrated increasing sophistication in targeting specific sectors:

• Healthcare: Malicious code injected into medical education platforms
• Automotive: Over 100 car dealership websites compromised through third-party streaming services
• Financial Services: Fake payment and invoice notifications targeting accounting departments
• Government: Impersonation of tax authorities and social security systems

Why Small Businesses Are Particularly Vulnerable

Small and medium-sized businesses face unique challenges that make them prime targets for ClickFix attacks:

Real-World Impact and Consequences

Successful ClickFix attacks can have serious consequences for small businesses:

Immediate Technical Impact

• Installation of information-stealing malware
• Compromise of business credentials and passwords
• Installation of remote access tools allowing a persistent attacker presence
• Potential deployment of ransomware

Business Consequences

• Theft of customer data and business intelligence
• Financial losses from compromised banking credentials
• Regulatory compliance violations and potential fines
• Reputational damage and loss of customer trust
• Business disruption and recovery costs

Long-Term Implications

• Use of compromised systems as launching points for attacks on customers and partners
• Potential liability for data breaches affecting third parties
• Increased insurance premiums and difficulty obtaining cyber coverage

Comprehensive Protection Strategies

Defending against ClickFix attacks requires a multi-layered approach that combines technology, processes, and human awareness:

Technical Safeguards

Process Improvements

Develop and regularly test incident response procedures specifically for social engineering attacks. Ensure employees know how to report suspicious activity and who to contact. Our cybersecurity assessment guide can help you evaluate your current response capabilities.

Human-Centered Defenses

Assessment and Implementation

Organizations should consider conducting a comprehensive security evaluation to identify vulnerabilities to ClickFix and other social engineering attacks. Our free cybersecurity assessment tool provides a starting point for understanding your current security posture.

For businesses looking to implement a comprehensive security strategy, consider reviewing our small business cybersecurity guide, which covers essential tools and practices for protecting against modern threats.

Additionally, many organizations benefit from conducting regular security audits using our mid-year security audit checklist to ensure ongoing protection against evolving threats.

Frequently Asked Questions