HIGH RISK
Fake AI Tool Malware
Malicious software disguised as popular AI tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, or DALL-E that steals data, credentials, or installs ransomware.
Losses: Data theft, ransomware infections, credential compromise
Targets: Anyone interested in AI tools, professionals, creatives, students
Updated: 2026-01-07
Also known as: Fake ChatGPT • AI App Malware • Fake Midjourney • AI Tool Scam
1How It Works
Scammers exploit the AI hype by creating fake versions of popular tools that are actually malware.
**Distribution methods:**
1. **Fake websites**: chatgpt-download.com, midjourney-free.net, etc.
2. **Malicious ads**: Google/Facebook ads for "ChatGPT Desktop App" or "Midjourney Free"
3. **Fake browser extensions**: Chrome extensions claiming to add AI features
4. **Phishing emails**: "Your ChatGPT Pro trial is ready — download now"
5. **Social media**: Posts offering free access to paid AI tools
**What the malware does:**
- Steals browser cookies and saved passwords
- Captures keystrokes (keylogger)
- Steals cryptocurrency wallet data
- Installs ransomware
- Creates backdoor for remote access
- Adds your device to a botnet
**Specific threats identified:**
- "ChatGPT for Windows" — actually info-stealer malware
- Fake Midjourney Facebook pages pushing malware
- Malicious ChatGPT Chrome extensions
- Fake AI video generator sites that install trojans
How Scammers Make Contact
Fake websitesMalicious adsPhishing emailsSocial media adsFake app stores
2Warning Signs & Red Flags
- AI tool requires download (ChatGPT is web-based)
- Offered for free when the real version is paid
- Download from unofficial website or store
- Facebook/social media ad for AI tool download
- URL doesn't match official site (openai.com, midjourney.com)
- Requests excessive permissions during install
- Browser extension from unknown developer
- Email asking you to download AI tool attachment
3Real-World Example
"I saw a Facebook ad for 'Midjourney Free Desktop App' and downloaded it. Within hours, my Facebook account was hacked and posting crypto scams, my email password was changed, and $2,400 in Bitcoin was transferred out of my Coinbase. The 'app' was malware that stole all my browser data."
— Trend Micro Threat Research, 2024
4How to Protect Yourself
- Only use official websites: chat.openai.com, midjourney.com, etc.
- ChatGPT doesn't have an official desktop app — use the website
- Check URLs carefully before downloading anything
- Research any AI tool before installing
- Don't click ads for AI tool downloads — go to official sites directly
- Verify browser extensions have legitimate developers and reviews
- Keep antivirus software updated
- Be suspicious of "free" versions of paid tools
5What To Do If You're a Victim
- 1Disconnect from the internet immediately
- 2Run a full antivirus scan
- 3Change all passwords from a clean device
- 4Check for unauthorized access to your accounts
- 5If cryptocurrency involved, move funds to new wallet immediately
- 6Consider professional malware removal if ransomware is suspected
- 7Report fake sites to Google Safe Browsing
- 8Report to FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Report This Scam
?Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fake AI Tool Malware?
Malicious software disguised as popular AI tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, or DALL-E that steals data, credentials, or installs ransomware. Scammers exploit the AI hype by creating fake versions of popular tools that are actually malware.
**Distribution methods:**
1. **Fake websites**: chatgpt-download.com, midjourney-free.net, etc.
2. **Malicious ads**: Google/Facebook ads for "ChatGPT Desktop App" or "Midjourney Free"
3. **Fake brows...
How common is this type of scam?
Fake AI Tool Malware is classified as a high risk threat. Reported losses: Data theft, ransomware infections, credential compromise. This primarily targets Anyone interested in AI tools, professionals, creatives, students.
Can I get my money back?
Recovery depends on how you paid. Credit card payments may be reversed through chargebacks. Wire transfers and cryptocurrency are rarely recoverable. Report immediately to your bank and file complaints with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and FBI IC3 at ic3.gov.
How do I report this?
Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. For internet crimes, file with FBI IC3 at ic3.gov. For identity theft, visit identitytheft.gov. Also contact your local police and your bank.
Sources & References
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