Introduction
Most users trust what they see on their screen. Buttons look familiar, layouts feel normal, and actions seem intentional. However, attackers exploit this trust through a technique known as clickjacking attacks.
Clickjacking does not break passwords or exploit server bugs. Instead, it manipulates the user interface itself. As a result, users unknowingly perform actions they never intended—such as approving permissions, changing settings, or triggering financial transactions.
In 2026, clickjacking remains relevant because it targets human behavior rather than software vulnerabilities. Understanding UI redressing risks helps organisations protect users from silent and deceptive attacks.
What Is Clickjacking?
Clickjacking is an attack where users are tricked into clicking on something different from what they perceive on the screen.
The attacker overlays or hides a malicious interface element beneath a legitimate one. When the user clicks, the action is redirected elsewhere.
In simple terms:
- The user thinks they are clicking one thing
- The system registers a different action
- The user never realises it happened
This technique is also called UI redressing, because the interface is visually manipulated to mislead users.
What Does UI Redressing Mean?
UI redressing refers to altering how interface elements are displayed or layered so that users interact with hidden or disguised components.
Common methods include:
- Invisible buttons layered under visible content
- Transparent iframes placed over trusted pages
- Misaligned UI elements that capture clicks
Because everything looks normal, users rarely suspect anything unusual.
How Clickjacking Attacks Work
Clickjacking attacks usually follow a simple sequence.
Step 1: A malicious page is prepared
The attacker creates a page that embeds a trusted site inside an invisible or disguised frame.
Step 2: Visual deception is applied
Legitimate-looking content appears on top, while sensitive actions sit underneath.
Step 3: The user interacts normally
The user clicks a button, link, or checkbox they trust.
Step 4: An unintended action occurs
The hidden element receives the click instead.
No malware runs. No alerts appear. The user simply performs an action they did not intend.
Why Clickjacking Is So Effective
Clickjacking succeeds because it exploits assumptions users make every day.
Interfaces feel trustworthy
Users rely on visual cues.
No technical warning signs exist
Browsers treat the interaction as normal.
Actions happen instantly
There is no time for second thoughts.
Security controls focus elsewhere
Most defences protect servers, not user clicks.
As a result, clickjacking attacks often bypass traditional security measures.
Modern Examples of Clickjacking in 2026
Clickjacking is no longer limited to simple web pages.
Common modern targets include:
- SaaS dashboards
- Admin panels
- Payment approval screens
- Privacy and consent settings
- Cloud service permissions
Because these interfaces control powerful actions, even a single click can have serious consequences.
Real-World Clickjacking Scenario
A user visits a website offering a free resource. A large “Download” button appears on the page.
Behind the scenes, the page embeds a hidden iframe containing a cloud service permission screen. When the user clicks “Download,” they unknowingly approve access to their account.
Nothing breaks. The page behaves normally. Yet access has been granted without informed consent.
This scenario shows how UI redressing quietly leads to dangerous outcomes.
Why Users Don’t Notice Clickjacking Attacks
Detection is difficult because everything looks legitimate.
The page behaves as expected
Content loads normally.
No credentials are entered
Users associate risk with logins, not clicks.
No errors occur
The action completes silently.
Trust in familiar brands
Well-known interfaces reduce suspicion.
Therefore, users often remain unaware long after the attack.
Clickjacking vs CSRF: What’s the Difference?
Although both involve user actions, they are not the same.
- Clickjacking manipulates what users click
- CSRF abuses authenticated sessions behind the scenes
Clickjacking targets the interface, while CSRF targets session trust. Both exploit user context, but through different paths.
Impact on Businesses and Individuals
For Businesses
- Unauthorised configuration changes
- Permission abuse in SaaS platforms
- Compliance and privacy violations
- Loss of customer trust
- Brand reputation damage
For Individuals
- Account misuse
- Privacy setting changes
- Unwanted authorisations
- Financial exposure
Clickjacking attacks often act as the first step in larger compromises.
Why Clickjacking Still Works in 2026
Despite modern browsers, clickjacking persists.
Legacy applications remain exposed
Older systems lack proper protections.
Misconfigured security headers
Protection exists but is not always enabled.
Increased use of embedded content
iframes and widgets are everywhere.
Human trust is unchanged
Visual cues still drive behaviour.
Because of this, UI redressing remains a practical attack technique.
How to Prevent Clickjacking Attacks
Reducing clickjacking risk focuses on design and configuration.
Use frame protection headers
Prevent pages from being embedded unexpectedly.
Apply content security policies
Control how and where content is loaded.
Design sensitive actions carefully
Add confirmation steps for high-risk actions.
Test UI interactions
Security testing should include interface abuse.
Educate users
Awareness reduces blind trust in clicks.
Clear, up-to-date guidance on clickjacking and UI redressing is provided by Cloudflare, which explains how attackers exploit interface trust and how modern applications can defend against it: Read more
Why Clickjacking Is a Human-Centric Risk
Clickjacking attacks remind us that security is not just about code. It is about how people interact with systems.
When interfaces are trusted blindly, attackers find opportunities without needing technical exploits.
Conclusion
Clickjacking attacks use UI redressing to trick users into performing dangerous actions without their awareness. By manipulating what users see and click, attackers bypass many traditional defences.
In 2026, preventing clickjacking requires secure interface design, proper browser protections, and user awareness. At eSHIELD IT Services, we help organisations identify UI-based risks and strengthen application security beyond backend controls.
Protecting users means protecting the interface they trust.
FAQ
What is a clickjacking attack?
It tricks users into clicking unintended actions.
What does UI redressing mean?
It visually manipulates interface elements.
Is clickjacking still relevant today?
Yes, especially in SaaS and admin panels.
Does HTTPS stop clickjacking?
No. HTTPS does not prevent UI manipulation.
Can clickjacking affect logged-in users?
Yes, authenticated actions are common targets.
Is clickjacking easy to detect?
No. It often looks like normal behaviour.
How can developers prevent clickjacking?
By using proper headers and UI safeguards.
Are users at fault in clickjacking attacks?
No. The design enables the deception.
Can clickjacking lead to data breaches?
Yes, through permission abuse.
Is UI security part of cybersecurity?
Absolutely.
