PDF started legit in 1993 when Adobe solved document compatibility, but today’s ecosystem is flooded with fake converters installing malware, predatory “free trials” that trap you in expensive subscriptions, and malicious PDFs disguised as invoices. This article traces how a legitimate technology became a scammer’s playground and shows how to spot trustworthy tools from the junk.
PDF started legit in 1993 when Adobe solved document compatibility, but today’s ecosystem is flooded with fake converters installing malware, predatory “free trials” that trap you in expensive subscriptions, and malicious PDFs disguised as invoices. This article traces how a legitimate technology became a scammer’s playground and shows how to spot trustworthy tools from the junk.