Don't get scammed by a fake Notepad++ for Mac

If you see a website claiming to offer an official version of Notepad++ for macOS, stop immediately. There is no official version. A site currently circulating under the domain notepad-plus-plus-mac.org is a blatant trademark violation, and it’s actively misleading users by hijacking the project’s identity.

The site is sophisticated enough to include the developer’s biography and name, which has already tricked tech media outlets and unsuspecting users. Let’s be clear: Notepad++ has never released a macOS version. If you download software from that site, you aren't getting a port of your favorite editor; you are likely installing malware or unwanted bloatware disguised as a legitimate tool.

Why this fake Notepad++ for Mac is dangerous

Most people assume that if a site looks professional and uses official branding, it must be safe. That is exactly the trap these bad actors want you to fall into. By mimicking the official project, they bypass your natural skepticism.

Here is why you should avoid these unauthorized projects:

1. Security Risks: Unauthorized ports often contain malicious code, keyloggers, or backdoors that compromise your system.
2. Trademark Infringement: Using the Notepad++ name without permission is a legal violation, but more importantly, it’s a sign of bad faith.
3. Misleading Claims: These sites often claim to be "official" to gain trust, which is a direct lie intended to manipulate your download habits.
4. Lack of Support: You won't get updates, bug fixes, or community support for a fake build, leaving you with a broken, insecure tool.

How do you know if a software release is legitimate? Always check the official Notepad++ website before trusting any third-party claims. If the news isn't posted on the primary domain, it doesn't exist.

How to protect the community

The developer, Don Ho, has already taken steps to address this, but the community plays a massive role in stopping the spread of this misinformation. If you see someone sharing links to this fake site on Reddit, Discord, or tech forums, don't just ignore it.

You should reply with a clear, concise correction: "This is not an official Notepad++ release. It’s an unauthorized project misusing the Notepad++ trademark." Including a link to the official announcement helps others avoid the same trap.

Why does this keep happening? Because open-source projects with high brand recognition are easy targets for people looking to monetize traffic or distribute malware. It’s a constant game of whack-a-mole, and your vigilance is the best defense we have.

If you’ve already downloaded this software, delete it immediately and run a full system scan. Don't let these bad actors profit from the hard work of the actual development team. Pass this warning to someone you know who uses a Mac and might be looking for a text editor, and read our guide on identifying malicious software to stay safe in the future.