The FBI has issued a warning for phone and PC users to be cautious about using free file converters, which are often found as websites or smartphone apps. According to a recent tweet from the FBI in Denver, many of these platforms are designed to steal Personally Identifiable Information (PII), which can lead to identity theft and other serious problems.
The agency highlighted that many victims may not realize they have been compromised until it’s too late, often resulting in malware infections like ransomware. While app stores provide some level of protection against malicious software, this is not guaranteed with websites.
To mitigate risk, the FBI recommends maintaining updated antivirus software on your devices. Safe browsing features, available on popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, should be enabled as they can alert users to dangerous websites and help block harmful downloads.
Online safety is crucial, especially given that victims of online scams reported losses totaling $37 billion between 2019 and 2023. The FBI advises anyone who suspects they have fallen victim to a fraudulent file converter to take immediate action.
This includes reporting the incident to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov), where victims can file complaints and seek assistance. To minimize exposure to scams, users are encouraged to utilize trusted file converters or built-in applications that come with their devices.
Avoiding unverified tools is essential for protecting personal information and maintaining online security. As the prevalence of cybersecurity threats continues to rise, it is essential for users to remain vigilant and informed.