Urgent warning for 3 billion Chrome users about a dangerous ‘fake URL’ scam.

We’re all taught to stay safe online, but that’s often easier said than done. Now, Google Chrome users are being warned about a fake URL scam that could leave their devices, personal data, and finances vulnerable to hackers.

Since its launch in 2008, Google Chrome has dominated the browser market, holding nearly 70% of the share. With around three billion users relying on it daily, the latest scam has drawn so much attention that even the FBI has stepped in.

The FBI has issued a warning about a cyber threat that disguises malicious code within file conversion websites. These sites claim to convert file types—such as .doc to .pdf or MP3 to MP4—but instead, they infect users’ devices with harmful software.

Once downloaded, these programs can grant hackers access to sensitive information, including passwords and Social Security numbers.

Chrome has become the target of hackers (Bloomberg / Contributor / Getty)

Speaking to BleepingComputer, FBI public affairs specialist Vikki Migoya warned, “Unfortunately, many victims don’t realize they’ve been infected with malware until it’s too late—when their computer is locked by ransomware or their identity has already been stolen.”

The FBI advises Chrome users to avoid downloading file converters from unverified websites. If you suspect you’ve been targeted by hackers, the agency recommends that you “contact your financial institutions immediately” and “run up-to-date virus scan software to detect any malicious programs installed by scammers.”

Additionally, users should seek help from a professional company specializing in virus and malware removal. Suspicious websites can also be reported to IC3.gov.

Migoya further explained, “Scammers try to mimic legitimate URLs by changing just one letter or using ‘INC’ instead of ‘CO.’”

She also warned that users searching for terms like “free online file converter” may be at risk, as paid search results often include fraudulent links.

According to CBS News, Iowa-based media company Lee Enterprises was recently compromised in a ransomware attack. The company reported the incident to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on February 12, stating, “Lee Enterprises experienced a systems outage caused by a cybersecurity attack.”

Google was recently hit by another attack (seksan Mongkhonkhamsao / Getty)

**“Preliminary investigations indicate that threat actors unlawfully accessed the company’s network, encrypted critical applications, and exfiltrated certain files.

The company is actively conducting a forensic analysis to determine whether sensitive data or personally identifiable information (PII) was compromised.”**

The statement added that while “no conclusive evidence” of compromised data had been found, the investigation remains ongoing.

Meanwhile, GitLab Threat Intelligence’s cybersecurity team recently issued a warning about Chrome, revealing that 16 browser extensions have been targeted by hackers. The affected extensions include: