CAPTCHA stands for "Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart." It is a security measure used on various websites and online services to distinguish between human users and automated bots. CAPTCHA challenges are designed to be easily solvable by humans but difficult for bots to bypass, thereby preventing automated scripts from abusing or spamming online systems.
The purpose of CAPTCHA is to ensure the integrity and security of online interactions, especially in areas such as user registrations, form submissions, voting systems, and preventing unauthorized access to websites or applications. By using CAPTCHA, website owners can reduce the risk of fraudulent activities, protect sensitive data, and enhance overall user experience.
CAPTCHA challenges come in different forms, such as image-based tests where users are asked to identify objects, numbers, or characters, audio-based challenges where users need to listen and type what they hear, or even interactive puzzles that require users to solve logical problems.
Overall, CAPTCHA plays a crucial role in maintaining the security and functionality of online platforms, helping to protect users' data and privacy while ensuring a smooth and genuine user experience.