Cyber Trap Alert: Why Free Converters Aren’t Always Friendly

 

⚠️ Think That “Free PDF to DOCX Converter” Is Safe? Think Again…

You needed to convert a PDF to Word. You Googled a free tool. You found a sleek-looking website. You clicked “Convert”…
And just like that—your personal data might’ve been stolen.

That’s not a hypothetical.
It’s happening right now. And thousands of people are falling for it.

🚨 The Bait: Fake PDF Conversion Sites That Look Too Legit

Cybersecurity researchers from CloudSEK just blew the lid off a new info-stealing campaign—and it’s brilliantly sneaky.

Hackers are setting up fake PDF-to-Word converter websites that look almost identical to trusted ones like pdfcandy.com. We're talking clones with URLs like candyxpdf.com or candyconverterpdf.com—so similar, most of us wouldn’t blink twice.

You upload your file, like usual. A slick animation spins. Then you’re asked to run a command or download a file to finish the conversion.

What you’re actually downloading?
A zip file containing ArechClient malware, a nasty piece of code designed to steal your browser passwords, crypto wallet info, and more.

😱 It’s Working—Thousands Are Already Infected

CloudSEK’s analysis showed over 6,000 visits in just a month to these fake sites. That’s 6,000+ people potentially exposed to having their online lives compromised…
All from trying to convert a simple document.

🧠 So, What Can You Do?

Here’s how to protect yourself from this scam—and future ones like it:


✅ Don’t trust lookalike sites – Always double-check the domain (not just how the site looks).
✅ Never run commands from random websites – That’s a huge red flag.
✅ Stick with trusted software – Use apps like Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat for conversions.
✅ Keep your antivirus updated – It’s your last line of defense.
✅ Be skeptical of anything “free” that asks too much – Especially downloads or “terminal” instructions.

🧩 Why This Scam Is So Dangerous

This scam works because it hits us where we’re vulnerable: the need for quick tools and free fixes. It blends technical trickery with a polished user experience—making it feel legit when it’s anything but.

In a world of deepfakes and cloned websites, this is a reminder:
                🔐 Convenience should never come at the cost of your cybersecurity.

📰 Want the full scoop?

Read the full breakdown via The Indian Express.

Stay sharp. Stay safe.
And maybe next time, double-check that “Free PDF Converter” before clicking.



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We simplify cybersecurity so you can stay informed, protected, and one step ahead online.

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