California (Web Desk) — ChatGPT users have been advised to remain cautious of a new online scam in which cybercriminals are attempting to direct users to malicious websites through fake messages and links.
According to reports, the scam begins when a user searches for ChatGPT on Google. The search results appear to direct the user to the official ChatGPT website through a sponsored advertisement. However, a fake custom GPT is present there, displaying a specific message in response to every question.
The fake message claims that service availability is limited on the primary domain, while advising the user to upgrade to ChatGPT Plus or visit an alternative domain.
To make the scam appear genuine, the fake custom GPT has been named “Plus 5.6,” which may lead an ordinary user to believe that it is a new model or an official ChatGPT Plus feature.
According to experts, the dangerous stage begins when the user clicks the link provided to visit the alternative or backup domain. Such links may direct users to malicious websites, where there is a risk of harmful software being installed on their computers or sensitive information being stolen.
Cybersecurity experts have advised users not to click blindly on sponsored links displayed in search engines, to remain cautious of suspicious upgrade messages and alternative domains, and to verify the web address before visiting any unusual link.