Online file conversion programs could be used to commit scams, steal information, spread infected files or use data for illicit purposes, according to a recent FBI warning.

The US security agency has issued an alert in this regard, referring to such digital tools as a possible weapon against users.

Usually, people turn to PDF to Word or JPG file converters. Among the recommendations to people who need to use these programs is not to use the first one they find on the Internet, but rather to prefer, for example, the Premium version of Adobe Acrobat.

In this way, according to the FBI, it is possible to avoid the activation of malware that cybercriminals hide in apparently defenseless versions of online converters.

By processing files in this way, viruses are loaded onto computers, causing cases of ransomware. But it is not the only way to attack users; The FBI also indicates that they can do this through tools to download videos or convert MP4 to MP3.

In that case, converters can return the document with JavaScript code that exploits a vulnerability or also installs commands on the device.

In the process of sending a file to convert and receive the one the client wants, digital criminals also keep the client’s information, since they can scrutinize the content and find an email address, address, phone number or, worse still, banking information, passwords, photos.

In short, everything that normally goes on a CV for a job. Hence, the FBI’s warning to carefully select the digital tools used to convert files, download or share information.

M.Pino

(Reference image source: FlyD on Unsplash)

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