Use this easy, free check to see if a site or file contains malware
Hidden malware, hackers and phishers are after your data and bank accounts. But what can you do when you need to visit a website and aren’t sure if it’s safe?
We’ve found an online tool to check websites and files for digital threats before opening them. Keep reading to find out how to use it.
Can VirusTotal protect your computer from malware?
It can, and it’s straightforward to use. VirusTotal is a scanner that can be used on local files and anything you find online. Plug in a site’s URL to know whether it’s safe to visit instantly.
VirusTotal inspects items with over 70 antivirus scanners, URL/domain blocklisting services and tools to extract signals from the studied content. You can even select a file from your computer using a browser and send it to VirusTotal.
The site offers several file submission methods, including the primary public web interface, desktop uploaders, browser extensions and a programmatic API.
Upon first inspection, the in-browser UI is highly straightforward and approachable. You have three options: uploading a File, using a URL, or VirusTotal’s Search feature. Click on the most relevant tab to your needs and follow the prompts to analyze.
Give the site a few minutes after adding a URL or file you’re interested in. You’ll be presented with an extremely long list of standards and types of malware, complete with a column warning you if anything terrible has been detected.
There are a few other tabs depicting the properties of your file. Everything from MD5 and TLSH to more common information like the file type and size.
This tool is highly versatile, allowing for various tasks and approaches. You can use a file’s hash to locate it or even search for possible exploits through its API.
VirusTotal Search
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