Beware: Free File Converters May Install Malware

The FBI Denver Field Office has issued a warning about a surge in deceptive websites offering free online file conversion services. These sites aren’t just failing to deliver on their promise; they’re actively installing malware on unsuspecting users’ computers.

The Threat: More Than Just File Conversion

These malicious sites often mimic legitimate services, offering conversions between common file types like .doc to .pdf. They may even successfully convert the file, lulling the user into a false sense of security. However, in the background, they’re deploying malware capable of:

• Collecting Personally Identifiable Information (PII), including Social Security Numbers (SSN).
• Stealing financial data, such as banking credentials and cryptocurrency wallet information.
• Compromising passwords and session tokens, potentially bypassing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
• Harvesting email addresses.

Infection Vectors: How They Get In

Cybercriminals employ various tactics to infect your system:

• Malicious Downloads: The site prompts you to download a “tool” for conversion. This download is the actual malware.
• Browser Extensions: You’re encouraged to install a browser extension for future use. These extensions are often browser hijackers or adware.
• Infected Files: The “converted” file itself contains malicious code that downloads and installs an information stealer. Opening this file infects your device and potentially spreads to others.

Falling victim to these scams can lead to ransomware infections, data theft, and identity compromise. Think about leveraging custom software development for safer tools.

Defense is Key

FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek emphasizes the importance of education in preventing these attacks: “The best way to thwart these fraudsters is to educate people so they don’t fall victim to these fraudsters in the first place.”

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Be wary of free online file converters, especially those from unknown sources.
• Ensure you have active anti-malware protection and a browser extension that blocks malicious sites.

If You’ve Been Compromised

If you suspect you’ve used a malicious file converter:

1. Contact your financial institutions immediately to protect your accounts.
2. Change all your passwords using a clean, trusted device.
3. Report the incident to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

Examples of Malicious Domains

Here are some examples of domains associated with these scams, as identified by Evotek:

• 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)

Consider Software Outsourcing to ensure secure digital practices within your organization.

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