Even though the use of torrent websites is declining, a fair number of users still use them every day.
Torrenting isn’t wholly illegal; it’s legal if you use it to exchange or download freeware files. However, as a newbie, the problem you will likely face while torrenting is downloading viruses or malicious files.
Even though the web browser you use to visit torrent sites these days is smart enough to block suspicious websites, some sites get past the browser security and convince you to download files.
How to Avoid Downloading Viruses from Torrent?
If you’re new to torrenting, you should pay attention to a few things before downloading a file from a torrent website.
Several torrent websites have been found pushing malware into user computers; if not, they use your PC’s processing power to mine cryptocurrency.
Even though you can’t eliminate all possibilities of getting infected by downloading torrents, there are still a few things in your hand to safeguard your PC from viruses & malware.
1. Make sure to use the right torrent sites
Be it a torrent or a regular software download site, whenever you download something from the internet, you should be sure that the source is genuine.
One of the most common errors new torrent users make is downloading torrent files from bad sources.
If you download a torrent from a non-trustworthy website, you risk downloading viruses or malware to your computer.
It’s best to download torrents from popular sites like The Pirate Bay, 1337X, etc.
2. Don’t download anything risky
Basic knowledge of file extensions will help you in a long way while torrenting. If you’re trying to download a Movie, the torrent file would contain either MKV, mp4, or similar video formats.
Similarly, ebooks will come in PDF files, and music will be MP3. These file types are usually low risk, and you should be fine if you download them from a good website.
The threat of viruses/malware is high when you download RAR files, .exe files, etc. So, be sure what type of file format you’re downloading. If it’s .exe files, you need to double check before downloading.
3. Check the Comments on the Torrent Sites
The comment section of the torrent will give you a clear idea of what to expect. If users complain about viruses or malware, the file is likely infected.
Reading the comments of a torrent file gives an indication of its trustworthiness. If you don’t see any comments or if there are many negative ones, don’t download.
4. Start using a Premium VPN
VPN is an important part of torrenting. It masks your IP Address and unblocks sites.
Several premium VPNs, like NordVPN, have strong security features to keep you safe. For example, NordVPN has a feature called Threat Protection that scans your torrent downloads for malware.
It also blocks phishing attempts, cyberattacks, and pop-up ads. So, it’s best to start using a VPN with security features, especially while torrenting.
5. Use Proper Antimalware tools like Malwarebytes
Good antivirus tools like Malwarebytes can find and remove malware from your device. Their real-time protection also scans the files you download from a torrent client.
Even if Malwarebytes doesn’t block the suspicious torrent downloads, you should run a full scan periodically, especially if you download high-risk files like video games with cracks, keygens, etc.
6. Scan the Downloads before using
After the torrent download completes, you should first scan the download with security tools like Malwarebytes or Kaspersky. Doing so will drastically decrease the chances of getting your PC infected with security threats.
If you can’t afford premium security suites, the native Windows Security will be enough. Also, keep the Windows Defender Firewall enabled all the time.
These are a few simple tips that you can follow to avoid downloading viruses while torrenting. Let us know if you need more help on this topic in the comments. Also, if you find this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with your friends.
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