FBI warns about documents conversion sites that disseminate malware
Online document conversion sites have been a lifeguard, whether you need to turn a PDF into an editable document, convert a PPT into a PDF or open a less known file format.
Most of these sites are free and offer rapid results, but many also raise serious privacy risks. When you upload your documents, you are essentially delivering them to a service without obligation to protect them.
Now, the FBI warns that some free online documents converters are one more step when loading malware on your computer. These malicious sites complete the conversion, but they also install malware in silence on their device.
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What you need to know
The FBI Denver field office warns about a scam that involves free tools for online document converters that cybercriminals are using to disseminate malware. These malicious tools can lead to serious incidents, including ransomware attacks.
Computer pirates around the world are exploiting any type of free documents converter or download tool to carry out this scheme. The scam can involve websites that promise to convert files, such as turning a .doc into a .pdf, or tools that claim to merge multiple images into a single document. Some even perch as MP3 or MP4 downloaders. While these tools perform the task announced, the resulting file may contain hidden malware, giving the attackers access to the victim’s computer.
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These tools can also extract confidential information of files sent, including personal data such as social security numbers, birth dates and telephone numbers. They can also reap bank details, cryptocurrency data, such as seed phrases and wallet addresses, as well as email addresses and passwords.
“Unfortunately, many victims do not realize that they have been infected with malware until it is too late, and their computer is infected with ransomware or their identity has been stolen,” the federals point out.
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FBI suggests steps to protect yourself
The FBI advises you to pause, reduce speed and think carefully before taking any online action. To reduce the risk of malware infections, keep your antivirus software updated and scan the files downloaded before opening them, said the security service.
A strong antivirus software the safeguarding of malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing their private information. This protection can also alert it to the PHISHING Electronic Correos and Ransomware scams, maintaining their personal information and their safe digital assets. Get my elections for the best antivirus protection winners 2025 for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
The FBI Denver Field Office also urges anyone who has been a victim or encountered this scam to inform the FBI Internet Crime Crimes Center in www.ic3.gov.
“The best way to frustrate these scammers is to educate people so that they are not victims of these scammers first,” said FBI Denver’s special agent by Mark Michalek. “If you or someone you know has been affected by this scheme, we recommend that you make a report and take measures to protect your assets. Every day, we are working to hold these scammers and provide victims with the resources they need.”
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Additional ways of staying safe from malicious document conversion tools
1. Use official conversion tools: Instead of relying on random online tools, download and use a good reputation documents conversion software provided by accredited companies such as Adobe Acrobat, LibreOffice or Microsoft Office. These programs allow you to convert files safely without exposing your data to possible threats.
2. See the reputation of the website: Before using a line converter, investigate the site. Look for reviews and see if forums or cybersecurity sources have marked it as insecure. If the site lacks basic security measures, avoid it.
3. Avoid downloading executable files: If an online document converter provides a .exe, .bat or .SCR file instead of a standard document format, do not download it or execute it. Legitimate converters should only generate files such as .pdf, .docx or .png, not executable that could contain malware.
4. Scan the files after conversion: Even if you use a trust converter, you always scan the converted file with update Strong antivirus software Before opening it.
5. Verify file permissions: After conversion, verify that the new file does not have unexpected permissions or properties that malware can indicate.
6. Create backup copies and enable ransomware protection: Regularly Make a backup of important documents in an external unit or in a safe service in the cloud. Some security suites, such as Microsoft Defender, offer ransomware protection characteristics that prevent unauthorized changes in their files.
7. Be careful with browser extensions: Avoid installing browser extensions for file conversion, since they can often be kidnappers or browser adware.
8. Consider the services paid: If you often need to convert files, invest in a service paid with good reputation that offers better security and privacy protection.
9. Use cloud -based solutions: Consider the use of cloud -based productivity suites that offer built -in conversion tools, reducing the need for third -party converters.
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Kurt key takeway
The convenience of free online tools often blinds us to the risks they carry. Many users assume that if a website looks professional or is located at the top of Google, it must be safe. Cybercriminals understand this mentality and take the most.
The real problem is not only converters with malware, but the habit of exchange security for convenience without thinking twice. Internet is full of services that seem free but have the hidden cost of stolen data, financial fraud or committed devices. Instead of trusting each tool that offers an easy solution, it is important to think critically about what we are giving every time we carry a file or click on a download button.
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Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson is a award -winning technological journalist who has a deep love for technology, equipment and devices that improve life with their contributions for News & News Business Startzing Mornings in “News & Friends”. Do you have a technological question? Get the free Kurt’s free newsletter, share your voice, an idea of the story or comment on Cyberguy.com.