FBI Alerts: Free Online Document Converters Spreading Malware
TL;DR
The FBI warns of a rise in malicious free online document converters used to spread malware. These tools can steal sensitive information and infect systems with ransomware. Users are advised to be cautious and report incidents to IC3.gov.
FBI Warns of Malicious Free Online Document Converters Spreading Malware
The FBI has issued a warning about a significant increase in scams involving free online document converters. These malicious tools are being used by threat actors to steal users’ sensitive information and infect their systems with malware.
According to the FBI Denver Field Office, there has been a surge in reports of such scams. Cybercriminals are exploiting free online document converter tools to load malware onto victims’ computers, leading to incidents such as ransomware attacks.
“The FBI Denver Field Office is warning that agents are increasingly seeing a scam involving free online document converter tools, and we want to encourage victims to report instances of this scam.” reads the alert. “In this scenario, criminals use free online document converter tools to load malware onto victims’ computers, leading to incidents such as ransomware.”
How the Scam Works
Fake file converters and download tools may perform the advertised tasks but can provide resulting files containing hidden malware. This malware gives criminals access to victims’ devices and allows them to steal personal data, banking details, cryptocurrency information, emails, and passwords by scraping the files users upload.
“To conduct this scheme, cybercriminals across the globe are using any type of free document converter or downloader tool. This might be a website claiming to convert one type of file to another, such as a .doc file to a .pdf file. It might also claim to combine files, such as joining multiple .jpg files into one .pdf file.” continues the alert. “The suspect program might claim to be an MP3 or MP4 downloading tool.”
Protecting Yourself
Victims often realize too late that malware has infected their devices, leading to ransomware or identity theft. The FBI urges reporting any incidents to IC3.gov.
The FBI Denver Field Office advises users to:
- Stay cautious online and be aware of potential risks.
- Keep antivirus software updated to scan files before opening them.
- If you fall victim to this scam, immediately contact your financial institutions, secure your accounts, and change all passwords using a trusted device.
- Report the incident to IC3.gov and run a virus scan or seek professional malware removal.
Conclusion
The rise in malicious free online document converters highlights the importance of vigilance and caution when using online tools. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, users can protect themselves from such cyber threats.
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