FBI warns free online file converter or MP3/MP4 downloader tools could be a scam

Do you use those free tools online that claim to be file converters, perhaps to convert your .doc file to .pdf or something similar? Or maybe those MP3 or MP4 downloader tools? If yes, then, well, maybe you need to listen to the warning that the FBI has issued recently.

The agency says they are “increasingly seeing” scams involving these tools wherein the output file contains malware, and using that file leads to ransomware attacks – in layman terms, hackers can gain control of your computer, only to lock it up and ask ransom in return.

Not only this, these tools can also extract crucial information from the source files you upload. For example, if your file contains your social security number, phone number, date of birth, banking information, or any email address and passwords, then these tools can potentially read and store all this information, and use it against you in the future.

In addition to free online file converters and MP3/MP4 downloader tools, the FBI also warns against tools that claim to join files, like the ones you use to merge multiple .jpg files into a single .pdf file.

Through the press release, the FBI’s aim seems to be educating the general public about these scams. In the agency’s own words:

The best way to thwart these fraudsters is to educate people so they don’t fall victim to these fraudsters in the first place. If you or someone you know has been affected by this scheme, we encourage you to make a report and take actions to protect your assets. Every day, we are working to hold these scammers accountable and provide victims with the resources they need

The agency also suggests keeping your antivirus software up-to-date and scanning every file you download to help eliminate or mitigate any potential risks. Here are some other actions or steps the FBI wants you to keep in mind in order to protect yourself from falling victims to these kind of scams:

Stay safe online.