Last Updated: March 4, Tested. To create this article, 26 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. The wikiHow Tech Team also followed the article's instructions and verified that they work. This article has been viewed , times. Learn more Scared that you might download the virus that's going to destroy your computer? Wondering whether the file you're downloading is safe or not?
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Related Articles. Assess what you're downloading. Are you downloading pornography or a warez cracked program? Or are you downloading an add-on to help improve your Mozilla Firefox experience? There's a much greater chance that the pornography and warez software is going to contain a virus hidden in the download. What's the file? That's your first clue. If it is illegal or suspicious looking, it's probably dangerous.
Look over the site. It may seem superficial, but if you're downloading a file from a very basic site there's a higher chance that the site will have a virus hidden in its downloadable files than from a site that looks like it's been made from years of dedicated web designers. Consider who you are downloading the file from.
Think about it logically, if you're downloading something from Microsoft, it's not likely that you're downloading a virus. What's the context? That's the key. Are there other people that have downloaded the file? If there's a forum attached to the site that has people saying they've downloaded said file and have not experienced any problems, chances are, you aren't going to be downloading a Trojan or worm.
Look at the size of the file. If it's too small for what it is, it's junk. Watch out for executable files, such as '. If you download one of these you are, potentially, opening yourself up to anything on that file once you activate it. Try scanning it with a virus checker or any other software that is like it - just to be on the safe side. One common trick used by crackers is to have a 'double extension' such as '.
Said file is actually an. Is the file signed? If you are downloading an executable. If the executable is unlicensed, it is most likely a threat to your computer and privacy. Note that not all unlicensed executables are bad, nor are all licensed executables good.
If unsure, refer to the Tips section. Is it okay to download a mod for Minecraft that has a warning saying it could harm my computer, but it does not have. If you right click on the file once downloaded, there should be an option to scan the file using your anti-virus software. If the file is genuine and safe, the scan will come up clear. If it isn't, remove the file and scan your computer with your anti-virus software to have it remove any malware.
Yes No. Not Helpful 10 Helpful Yes, its created by SONY. But if you download a cracked version of it, that could be infected with malware. Not Helpful 4 Helpful DeviantArt itself is safe, but some images may be offensive and download links may contain viruses. Null's Clash Null's Royale 3.
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Carrom Pool Mod 5.
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