Watch Out: Malware Hides in Free Online File Converters, Malwarebytes Warns

1️⃣ Free online file converters may hide malware, such as viruses, phishing tools, or spyware, that steal sensitive data like bank details and passwords.

2️⃣ Malwarebytes and the FBI warn about these dangers, citing infected downloads and harmful browser extensions.

3️⃣ Malicious sites like Imageconvertors[.]com and convertitoremp3[.]it are linked to these attacks. Avoid them to stay safe.

4️⃣ Protect yourself by using trusted software, avoiding unknown downloads, checking file extensions, and keeping your security software updated.

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If you’ve ever used a free online tool to convert a document or image, here’s something you should know — not all of those websites are as harmless as they seem. Malwarebytes recently published an advisory warning users about a growing cybersecurity threat hiding behind these free file converter sites. Even the FBI’s Denver Field Office has backed this warning, stressing just how dangerous these platforms can be.

These websites promise a simple service — turn your .doc into a .pdf, merge images into a single file, or maybe convert an audio file. But behind the scenes, some of them are planting malware right into the files you download. And the scary part? You won’t even know it happened until it’s too late.

I know how easy it is to fall into these traps — I’ve nearly fallen victim to a phishing scam myself. That experience opened my eyes to just how sneaky these online threats can be. Since then, it’s been a personal mission of mine to help spread awareness and keep others from becoming easy targets.

What’s at Risk?

According to Malwarebytes, these infected downloads are designed to steal sensitive personal information, including:

• Social Security Numbers (SSNs)
• Bank login details and cryptocurrency wallets
• Passwords and session tokens (which could bypass two-factor authentication)
• Email addresses for future phishing attacks

Cybercriminals use this data for identity theft, draining accounts, or launching ransomware attacks. Victims often don’t realize their systems are compromised until serious damage is done.

Malicious Sites to Watch Out For

To help users stay vigilant, Malwarebytes also flagged several specific domains tied to this campaign. If you stumble across these websites, steer clear — they’re known to distribute malware or push shady browser extensions:

❌ Imageconvertors.com – flagged for Phishing

❌ convertitoremp3.it – flagged for Riskware

❌ convertisseurs-pdf.com – flagged for Riskware

❌ convertscloud.com – flagged for Phishing

❌ convertix-api.xyz – flagged for Trojan

❌ convertallfiles.com – flagged for Adware

❌ freejpgtopdfconverter.com – flagged for Riskware

❌ primeconvertapp.com – flagged for Riskware

❌ 9convert.com – flagged for Riskware

❌ Convertpro.org – flagged for Riskware

Some of these sites don’t just deliver malicious files — they also trick users into installing harmful browser add-ons designed to hijack your online activity.

A Hidden Threat No One’s Talking About: Browser Extensions

Here’s something many aren’t reporting — some converter websites also push users to install browser extensions. These extensions may seem harmless but can act like spyware. They hijack your browser, manipulate search results, inject unwanted ads, and track everything you do online.

Once installed, these extensions can quietly collect even more data, turning your daily browsing into a goldmine for attackers.

How to Stay Safe

Cybersecurity experts, including Malwarebytes, recommend a few simple but important steps:

✅ Use trusted software: Stick to reputable tools or apps for file conversions. Microsoft Office, Adobe, or your device’s built-in options are safer bets.

✅ Avoid unknown downloads: If a website asks you to install extra software or extensions — close the tab.

✅ Check file extensions: Watch out for suspicious double extensions like “.pdf.exe”. A simple check can prevent big trouble.

✅ Update your security software: Always keep your antivirus and anti-malware tools updated.

✅ Open suspicious files in a sandbox or virtual environment: This limits potential damage if the file is infected.

✅ Back up your files: Regular backups protect you against ransomware attacks.

File conversion should never put your personal data at risk. Stay alert, avoid shady converter sites, and always think twice before clicking download. In cybersecurity, caution is your best defense.