Link Blank Deletion

Detection approach

A MutationObserver detected that target='_blank' was stripped from a link milliseconds before a click was registered. Only automated scripts manipulate the DOM to force navigation in the current tab; humans never do this.

How this helps detect bots

This signal is assessed with other independent session, browser, and network evidence. A single anomaly is a lead, not a verdict; corroborating anomalies make automated traffic more likely.

Legitimate traffic to consider

None. Signature of automation scripts forcing same-tab navigation to remain attached.