How To Avoid A New Browser Scam That's Stealing Social Security And Bank Info As FBI Issues Urgent Warning To Billions

Billions of internet users could be putting their personal and financial information at serious risk, as the FBI has issued a major warning about a fast-growing online scam that could leave victims with nothing.

This week, the federal agency warned the public that cybercriminals are creating fake websites often unverified and unsafe and paying to have these sites show up at the top of search engine results when people look for certain online tools.

The scam itself is pretty straightforward. These bad actors are designing new websites that look like they help users convert files - like turning a .doc into a .pdf or converting audio and video formats such as MP3s or MP4s. But in reality, they’re setting a trap.

Instead of safely converting a file, users are unknowingly downloading malicious code to their computers. Once it’s on there, scammers can get access to things like passwords, bank logins, and even social security numbers.

Thankfully, there are ways to stay protected and the FBI has shared some advice.

Their biggest tip? Steer clear of downloading anything from websites you don’t recognize or trust, especially if they seem sketchy or unfamiliar.

Internet users could see their identities be stolen if they download malicious content from unverified websites Getty stock

If you’ve already fallen victim to one of these scams, here’s what the FBI recommends: "Run up-to-date virus scan software to check for potentially malicious software installed by the scammers."

"Consider taking your computer to a professional company specializing in virus and malware removal services."

The agency also strongly suggests that victims reach out to their banks immediately and report the incident through IC3.gov so it can be investigated.

Vikki Migoya, who serves as a public affairs specialist for the FBI’s Denver office, said in a statement: "Unfortunately, many victims don't realize they have been infected by malware until it's too late, and their computer is infected with ransomware or their identity has been stolen."

Speaking to Bleeping Computer, she added: "The scammers try to mimic URLs that are legit – so changing just one letter, or 'INC' instead of 'CO.'"

"Users who in the past would type 'free online file converter' into a search engine are vulnerable, as the algorithms used for results now often include paid results, which might be scams."

If you fall victim to the file converter scam, you should contact your bank immediately Getty stock

In a related concern, millions of Google Chrome users were recently warned about 16 browser extensions that had been compromised by hackers and could be used to spy on people or steal data.

Google confirmed that all of the harmful extensions had been removed from the Chrome Web Store. However, users who already installed any of them will still need to go into their settings and delete them manually from their devices to stay safe.