FBI confirmed that fake file converter websites are distributing malware
If you've ever Googled "convert PDF to Word" or "convert PNG to JPG" and used whatever free site popped up first - you should know the FBI put out a warning about this.
They confirmed that cybercriminals are setting up fake file converter websites specifically to distribute malware. The sites actually do convert your file, which is why people trust them. But in the background, they're scraping the uploaded documents for passwords, SSNs, bank details, and crypto wallet info. Some are even bundling malware into the converted file you download back.
BleepingComputer did a detailed writeup confirming the FBI's findings:
How to protect yourself:
Don't use random online converters, especially ones you found through Google ads
If you must convert files online, stick to well-known tools and check the URL carefully
Better yet, use offline/desktop converters that never upload your files anywhere
Check your recently downloaded files - if you got an .exe or .js when you expected a .pdf, delete it immediately and run a full scan
If you've used a sketchy converter recently and entered any passwords or opened sensitive docs, change those passwords now
This is especially dangerous for people handling work documents, tax forms, legal files, or anything with personal info.
Stay safe out there.
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