Scanning files for viruses: why it’s important
You should block malware before it does damage to your device.
Avoid becoming a bot
Hackers can use malware to overtake your device’s resources and use them to mine cryptocurrency or perform DDoS attacks.
Prevent money loss
Ransomware encrypts your files and programs, making them unusable until you pay a ransom to the cybercriminal who did it.
Ensure smooth performance
Malware can annoy you by showering you with ads or changing your browser settings, but it can also wreak havoc on your device, deleting files, and destroying the OS.
Stop data theft
Cybercriminals can use keyloggers and other spyware to track your actions online and record passwords, usernames, and credit card data.
Common virus scanning methods
Learn about different types of file scanning for malware.
Signature-based detection
Most antivirus software relies on signatures to identify whether a file is malicious. After analyzing the file, the antivirus compares its signature against a database of known malware. If there’s a match, the file is flagged as malicious.
Heuristics
It’s a behavior-based malware detection method that allows the antivirus to identify new or unknown malware. Many security apps use it to detect threats that cannot be found with traditional signature-based methods.
Sandboxing
A behavior-based method that involves actually executing the file to see how it behaves. To protect the system, the file is put in a virtual environment or even on the cloud — for example, that’s how NordVPN’s deep file scanning feature works.
Why choose NordVPN for your device’s protection?
NordVPN is constantly guarding your device from malware hidden in your downloads, allowing you to relax and enjoy your online activities more.
Cross-platform
support
Use a Mac for every day and PC for gaming? Threat Protection Pro works on both — install NordVPN and experience the benefits.
Instant alerts
In case the file you were downloading is malicious, you’ll be instantly notified so you can stay away from the website you found it on.
Effortless
Setting up Threat Protection Pro is easy, and you’ll only have to do it once — safer browsing without hassle!
Extra features
Ad blocker, tracker blocker, vulnerability detection, and double extension detection — it’s all there to help you stay as safe as possible.
Protecting your devices from malware
Regularly update all your software and the operating system.
Avoid downloading files or clicking on links from untrusted sources.
Be cautious with email attachments, especially if they’re unsolicited.
Only download files and software from trusted sources.
Keep your files in an encrypted cloud storage so they are safe from potential damage.
Don’t let random apps access your system — always evaluate their permissions.
Frequently asked questions
Which file types are most likely to be malicious?
The most obvious ones are executable files, like .exe, which could install any program on your PC. It’s especially dangerous to execute if you downloaded it from a third-party website, as it could contain all kinds of malware.
However, non-executable files can be just as dangerous. Cybercriminals can hide malware in all sorts of files, including DOC, XLS, PDF, JPEG, ZIP, ISO, and many more.
Is file scanning safe?
Yes. Scanning files for malware is safe, and it makes your digital life safer as well by protecting your devices from malware.
Is the file scanning feature free?
Yes. Checking files for viruses is part of NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro feature, and you don’t have to pay extra for it after you get the subscription.
What browsers support NordVPN’s file scanning feature?
NordVPN’s file scanning feature works with most popular browsers, like Chrome, Safari, Edge, and Firefox.
How do you disable the file scanning feature?
If you no longer want to scan your files for viruses, follow these steps:
- Open the NordVPN app.
- Find the shield icon and click on it.
- Open the drop-down menu on the file protection card.
- Select “Turn off”.
