TLDR: You can open questionable downloads without worry by using a sandboxed browser at browserling.com/browse. I and my team created a service that virtualizes browsers so that downloads stay isolated from your actual computer.

Introduction

Have you ever downloaded something that seemed a bit sketchy but weren't sure if it was safe to open? Suspicious downloads can be risky because they might hide viruses or other harmful software that could mess with your device and even steal your info. In this post, I'll go over some simple ways to check if a download is suspicious and discuss a reliable solution, Browserling (that I and my team built), to safely open downloads without putting your computer or personal data at risk.

What Makes a Download Suspicious?

Strange File Extensions

Downloads that end in unusual extensions like .exe, .bat, or .scr (instead of something like .jpg or .pdf) can be red flags, especially if you were expecting to download a document or a PDF (and not an an app or program).

Too Good to Be True Names

Downloads named like "FreeMoney.exe" or "UnlimitedGames.zip" might be tempting, but they're often traps. Scammers use flashy names to lure people into downloading malware.

Unexpected Email Attachments

If you get an attachment from an unknown sender or even a friend, but it looks out of place (like a random "Invoice.pdf"), it's best to be cautious. Hackers sometimes disguise their malware as innocent files.

Downloads from Pop-Up Ads

When a download starts just by clicking on a pop-up ad or random website link, it's usually bad news. These downloads often carry unwanted programs or spyware that can harm your computer.

Downloads That Ask for Special Permissions

If a download requires admin permissions to open or install, especially when it's supposed to be something simple, it could be trying to access sensitive parts of your computer without a good reason.

Fake Software Updates

Downloads claiming to be updates for popular software, like "FlashPlayerUpdate.exe", can be sneaky malware. Official updates don't come from random websites – they usually come from the software itself.

Meet Browserling

So, how can you check out suspicious downloads without risking your computer or personal info? That's where Browserling, a tool my team and I created, can help.

What Is Browserling?

Browserling is a download sandbox that lets you safely test suspicious files and links without putting your computer at risk. It opens files in a virtual environment, so any hidden malware or viruses can't reach your actual device. This way, you can check out downloads and websites in a safe space before deciding if they're safe to use.

Who Uses Browserling?

Browserling has now become the suspicious download investigation platform of choice and it's used by hundreds of thousands of users around the world every month. Browserling's customers include governments, states, cities, banks, stock exchanges, universities, newspapers, Fortune 100, Fortune 500 companies, and private multi-billion dollar companies.

Browse safe!