Notepad++ Warns Against Deceptive Copycat Site

The developer of Notepad++, a widely used text and code editor for Windows, has issued a warning to its users regarding a deceptive copycat website. Despite Notepad++’s official website being notepad-plus-plus.org, a fraudulent website operating under notepad.plus has managed to climb the ranks on Google’s search results.

At present, the copycat site holds the fourth position in Google’s search results, following only two official site listings and Notepad++’s Wikipedia page. This deceptive website, while redirecting users to the official site for software downloads, is not merely a fan site, as it claims to be. Notepad++’s developer, Don Ho, highlighted in a blog post on the Notepad++ website that some users have been misled into believing it to be the official Notepad++ site, leading to potential security risks and frustration.

Despite its claim as an ‘unofficial fan website created for general information/educational purposes only,’ the copycat site is filled with malicious advertisements on every page. These ads are designed to trick unsuspecting users into clicking on them, generating profits for the site’s owners. While there were no immediately visible deceptive practices or misleading advertisements during a visit to the copycat site, the concern remains that these sites could switch legitimate download links for links to malware-infected software, a tactic known as ‘bait and switch.’

The ownership details of the copycat site are obscured in Whois lookup results, with only the information that the domain was initially registered in 2019 through the namecheap.com registrar being available. The site includes a disclaimer at the bottom, stating that ‘Notepad++ is a trademark of Don HO. Notepad.plus is not affiliated, sponsored or endorsed by Don HO in any ways. This is an unofficial fan website created for general information/educational purpose only.’

In response to the situation, Notepad++’s developer is calling on users to report the copycat site as ‘malicious software’ using Google’s reporting tool. This action is intended not only to protect the Notepad++ community but also to contribute to a safer online environment for all users.