It is absolutely not farfetched to tag this period “crazy times” – with everything happening nowadays, at least on the cyber domain. It becomes annoying when simple conversion of files online can easily make us vulnerable to cyber scams and the whole shebang.
To this end, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has raised concerns about an increasing cyber threat impacting millions of online users. The agency cautions that cybercriminals are utilizing counterfeit file conversion sites to steal information, deploy malware, and jeopardize users’ safety. If you often utilize free online services to convert PDFs, MP3s, or image files, you might be in danger.
The FBI’s Denver Field Office reports that numerous fraudulent websites are crafted to resemble genuine file converters. They deceive users into installing harmful software that can access personal data or even prevent them from using their own devices. The risk impacts users of Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge, and Google Chrome, the three leading web browsers.
This alarming scenario is not just fiction – it is an increasingly widespread method of cybercrime. So how do these scams operate? Which sites pose risks? And most importantly, what can we do to avoid the next victim? Let us take a closer look.
How Do These Fake Websites Work?
Cybercriminals use a multi-step strategy to deceive users and distribute malware. Here’s how they operate:
- Fraudsters develop sites that resemble authentic file conversion tools. They purchase advertisements to guarantee their websites rank high in search engine results, creating an impression of credibility.
- The websites imitate well-known and reliable conversion tools. The design, hues, and branding seem polished to reduce users’ skepticism.
- When a user submits a file or presses the “convert” button, the site might ask them to download an executable file (.exe) or add a browser extension. These downloads harbor concealed malware.
- After installation, the malware is capable of stealing login credentials, financial details, browsing history, and personal information. Some even permit hackers to gain remote control of a device.
In certain situations, the malware locks files and requests a ransom to restore access. This poses a significant risk for companies, as losing data can have disastrous consequences.
Real-World Examples of Cyber Attacks
The FBI warns that these threats are not theoretical—they are actively harming individuals and organizations:
- A media company in Iowa was hit by a ransomware attack in February 2024 after employees unknowingly used a malicious file conversion website. The attackers locked the company’s data and demanded payment for its release.
- Thousands of users worldwide have reported identity theft after using unsafe file conversion websites. Stolen information has been used for fraudulent bank transactions and unauthorized purchases.
- Businesses have suffered financial losses as malware from these sites compromised their systems, requiring expensive cybersecurity interventions.
Websites Identified as High-Risk
While the FBI has not disclosed an official list, cybersecurity experts have flagged the following websites as potentially dangerous:
High-risk file converter websites:
- Imageconvertors[.]com (Phishing)
- Convertitoremp3[.]it (Riskware)
- Convertisseurs-pdf[.]com (Riskware)
- Convertscloud[.]com (Phishing)
- Convertix-api[.]xyz (Trojan)
- Convertallfiles[.]com (Adware)
- Freejpgtopdfconverter[.]com (Riskware)
- Primeconvertapp[.]com (Riskware)
- 9convert[.]com (Riskware)
Convertpro[.]org (Riskware)
Why Are These Attacks So Dangerous?
The main concern is that these websites appear harmless. Many users don’t realize they’ve been infected until it’s too late. Hackers target everyday internet activities—like converting files—to spread their malware.
Unlike phishing emails or suspicious links, which many people have learned to avoid, file converter websites seem useful and harmless, making them a perfect cybercrime tool.
How to Protect Yourself from Online File Converter Scams
The FBI recommends following these steps to stay safe:
- Use Trusted Software. Instead of relying on unknown online converters, use built-in tools on your device. Microsoft, Adobe, and Apple offer safe conversion tools for documents, audio, and images.
- Be Wary of Search Results. Just because a website appears at the top of Google doesn’t mean it’s safe. Avoid clicking on sponsored ads for file converters—stick to known, reputable websites.
- Cybercriminals use spoofed URLs that look like real sites (e.g., “free-convertor.com” instead of “freeconverter.com”). Double-check spellings before entering sensitive information.
- If a site asks you to download an EXE file or install a browser extension, avoid it immediately. Many legitimate converters work without requiring a download.
- Keep Your Antivirus Software Updated. Good cybersecurity software can detect and block suspicious downloads before they cause harm.
Report Suspicious Websites. If you come across a fraudulent site, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.
The Bottom Line: Think Before You Click
The web is packed with handy resources, yet not every one of them is secure. Cybercriminals exploit users seeking fast fixes—particularly for common activities such as file conversion. By being aware and vigilant, you can safeguard yourself against scams and prevent becoming a target. The FBI’s recent alert is straightforward: Exercise caution when browsing the web not just whrn converting your files, as you might be giving hackers access to your personal information.
Stay Safe. Stay Smart. Stay Secure.
