AI-Powered Scams
Fake AI Tool Malware
Malicious software disguised as popular AI tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, or DALL-E that steals data, credentials, or installs ransomware.
Reported Losses
Data theft, ransomware infections, credential compromise
Primary Targets
Anyone interested in AI tools, professionals, creatives, students
Last Updated
2026-01-07
Also Known As
Fake ChatGPT
How Scammers Contact You
How This Scam 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
Red Flags to Watch For
- ⚠️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
📝 Real Victim Account
"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
How to Protect Yourself
- 1Only use official websites: chat.openai.com, midjourney.com, etc.
- 2ChatGPT doesn't have an official desktop app — use the website
- 3Check URLs carefully before downloading anything
- 4Research any AI tool before installing
- 5Don't click ads for AI tool downloads — go to official sites directly
- 6Verify browser extensions have legitimate developers and reviews
- 7Keep antivirus software updated
- 8Be suspicious of "free" versions of paid tools
🆘 What 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
🔗 Related Scams
📚 Sources & References
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