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
Collect this signal alongside session context, request metadata, and other independent indicators. 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.
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