How to Spot Fake Software Deals and Updates Before They Hack Your Business

If you use tools like CapCut, Adobe Express, or Canva to create content for your business, be aware of new scams targeting their popularity. Cybercriminals are setting up fake websites and running ads that promise premium or AI-enhanced versions of these tools at a discount—or even for free. Instead of getting the creative boost you were hoping for, you could end up downloading malware, handing over your business data, or giving a hacker remote access to your computer.

It's already happening, according to welivesecurity.com. One fake site offers a so-called "CapCutProAI" version—an invented name designed to sound official. The site mimics the real thing: it asks you to upload a file or describe what you want to create. Then, it pretends to process your request. At the end, it prompts you to download your video. But the file is actually a remote access tool that gives someone else control over your device.

Other scams have surfaced around fake "premium" versions of Adobe Express and Canva. These often promise advanced templates or AI features in exchange for a small one-time fee. Instead, they lead to malware, phishing pages, or credential theft.

It's not just design and video tools either—popular platforms like Photoshop, Zoom, Notion, and even QuickBooks have also been mimicked in similar scams.

Related: Use Google Calendar? Here’s the One Change That Can Protect Your Business from Scams

How Fake Software Scams Work

This type of scam is surprisingly simple—and effective. It usually follows a pattern:

• A fake website is created to look like a trusted software brand
• It promises enhanced, AI-powered, or free/premium access
• People are encouraged to download a file or enter their login details
• The file installs malicious software, such as:
  • Infostealers that collect passwords, browser data, or bank details
  • Remote access tools that let attackers take over your device
  • Malware that silently monitors your activity or locks your files for ransom
• Sometimes, victims unknowingly give full control of their computer with just a few clicks

For a solopreneur or very small business, falling for one of these scams can mean more than just cleaning up a hacked device. It could lead to stolen client files, drained accounts, damage to your brand's reputation, or even ransomware, locking you out of your work.

Now you know: These “deals” are scams

Canva Lifetime Plan - No matter how convincing the ad looks, Canva doesn't offer a lifetime plan. All legitimate Canva subscriptions are monthly or yearly and managed through the official Canva website.

Related: How You Can Use Canva Safely for Your Small Business

CapCut Pro AI - There's no version called "CapCutProAI." The real premium version is called CapCut Pro, and it's only available through official channels like the CapCut app or website.

Adobe Express Premium Crack- Scam sites promise "cracked" or "free" premium versions of Adobe Express. These downloads often contain malware or spyware, not design tools.

Zoom Pro Lifetime License- Zoom doesn't sell lifetime access plans. Any website claiming to offer Zoom Pro for a one-time payment is likely a phishing site or malware distributor.

Grammarly Premium for $9.99 Lifetime Access- Grammarly doesn't offer a lifetime plan either. Any one-time "deal" is likely fake and could be harvesting your payment info or personal data.

Figma Pro Lifetime Plan- Another common trap — Figma offers free and paid plans, but no lifetime option. Fake sites offering this deal often mimic Figma branding to trick you.

All-in-One AI Tool Packs for $49- Bundles that claim to give you full access to multiple tools like Midjourney, Jasper, and ChatGPT for a single payment are not legitimate. These are often run by fraudsters hoping you won't check each product's official pricing.

Related: Some Free File Converters Aren't as Safe as They Seem — Here's Why

Watch out for fake software updates, too

These fake update requests often appear while you're browsing, not through your system's real update settings. They may mimic legitimate notifications or even include official logos—but clicking them can open the door to malware, data theft, or a complete system takeover.

Here are some warning signs that an update prompt might be fake:

• It appears as a pop-up while browsing rather than from your system settings
• It asks you to call a phone number (often 1800 or local area codes)
• It links to unfamiliar or suspicious websites
• It asks for credit card details or personal information
• It uses scare tactics like "Update now or lose access"

Related: How Scammers Trick You into Compromising Your Own Security—and How to Stop Them

How to Spot a Fake Software Deal

Fake software deals can look convincing, but there are warning signs if you know what to check:

1. Always check the URL

Lookalike domains like "CapCutProAI.com" instead of the real "capcut.com" are common. Watch out for small differences, misspellings, or unusual endings like .biz, .top, or .xyz.

2. Don't trust unsolicited links

If you see an ad or post offering a shortcut to a premium tool, be skeptical. It's safer to type the official website directly into your browser or find it through a trusted app store.

3. Beware of "too good to be true" offers

A lifetime license to a normally expensive tool for just a few dollars? That's a common lure. Scammers count on urgency and excitement to make you act fast.

Related: 3 Tech Support Scam Tactics Targeting Small Businesses and How to Counter Them

4. Pay attention to how the tool behaves

If you're asked to download a file with a vague or suspicious name like "VideoMadeByAI.exe" or "Design_Canva_Premium.zip," that's a red flag. Most legitimate online tools don't require downloads to show results.

5. Check the official site for comparison

Before acting on an offer, check the official software website for current pricing and features. If the deal you saw isn't listed there, it's likely a scam.

6. Use real-time security tools

Strong cybersecurity software can block known scam websites, scan downloads, and stop remote access tools from installing behind your back.

Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security blocks dangerous downloads, fake websites, and phishing links hiding in emails, ads, or social media posts. It also detects when someone tries to misuse remote access tools or launch AI-powered scams that mimic well-known brands.

Beyond scam protection, it gives you control over your team's digital safety. You can manage device security, passwords, and account protection for everyone—whether you work remotely, use personal devices, or run everything from a shared office.

Check out our plans for small businesses.

FAQs

What should I do if I unintentionally purchased an illegitimate software plan?

Start by disconnecting from the internet if you downloaded a suspicious file or app — this may limit any further damage. Then, run a full system scan using your security software. If you entered any login details or payment info, change your passwords immediately and contact your bank or card provider to report the fraud. It's also a good idea to report the scam to the software company and your country's cybercrime reporting center.

How can I verify if a software offer is legitimate?

Always check the official website of the product for pricing and available plans. If you're unsure, contact their support team directly. Avoid clicking links in ads or messages — instead, type the website address manually or access it through trusted app stores. Be skeptical of "too good to be true" offers, especially one-time lifetime deals.

Can I get my money back after falling for a fake software deal?

Sometimes. If you paid with a credit card or through PayPal, you may be able to file a dispute or chargeback. Contact your payment provider as soon as possible. If you gave out your bank info, let your bank know right away to help block or reverse the transaction and protect your account.

What should I do if I downloaded a file from a fake site but didn't open it?

If you haven't opened the file yet, delete it immediately. Then clear your browser history and cache, and run a security scan just to be safe. You may have avoided the worst, but it's still smart to monitor your device and accounts for any strange behavior.