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Christopher Glikpo  ⭐
Christopher Glikpo ⭐

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How VirusTotal Can Protect You from Phishing, Malware, and Dangerous Links

Always Put Unfamiliar Links into VirusTotal Before Clicking Them!

In a world filled with cyber threats, one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect yourself from malicious websites and phishing attacks is to check unfamiliar links before clicking them. But how do you know if a link is safe? That's where VirusTotal comes in.

What is VirusTotal?

VirusTotal is a trustworthy online service that scans files, URLs, and links for viruses, malware, trackers, and phishing attempts. When you come across a link that looks suspicious or unfamiliar, you can use VirusTotal to check if it's safe or not.

Why You Should Use VirusTotal:

  • Protection Against Malware: VirusTotal scans links and files with multiple antivirus engines, increasing the chances of detecting malicious software.
  • Identify Phishing Sites: Some links may lead you to phishing websites designed to steal your information, like login credentials or financial data. VirusTotal helps identify those harmful sites.
  • Verify Trustworthiness: Links that seem too good to be true (like surprise offers or "too good to pass up" deals) can often be harmful. With VirusTotal, you can verify the legitimacy of those offers before you fall victim to a scam.

How to Use VirusTotal:

  1. Copy the suspicious link or file.
  2. Visit VirusTotal.
  3. Paste the link into the search bar (or upload the file if needed).
  4. Review the results. If it shows warnings from antivirus engines, avoid clicking or opening the link/file.

Remember:

Even if a website looks official, it might not be. Cybercriminals use sophisticated methods to create fake websites that look identical to legitimate ones. Always double-check before providing any personal or financial information.

Stay Safe:

The internet is full of hidden dangers, but a little caution can go a long way. Using VirusTotal to verify links and files can help you avoid falling into phishing traps or exposing yourself to malware. Don't take risks—always scan before you click!

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