NordVPN launches free malicious file checking service that anyone can use — get it now to keep you safe online
NordVPN launches new free safety tool
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The creators of one of thebest VPNshave unveiled anew checking toolto help keep you safe when downloading files from the internet.
While not a traditionalantivirus, Nord’s new File Checker is a service that anyone can use free of charge to check whether a file contains anymalwareor other malicious content.
Users can simply upload a suspicious file to the checker, and NordLabs will do the hard work to check if the file is a threat.
Security and privacy
“Hackers have long proven their talent for disguising malware with legitimate-looking files. But the boom of artificial intelligence and development of large language models has enabled cybercriminals to build and distribute malware faster and easier. But as hackers become more resourceful, so does the cybersecurity industry. Tools like File Checker can help users remain secure online,” said Vykintas Maknickas, head of product strategy at NordVPN.
In order to maintain both privacy and security, the file does not leave the user’s computer when it is being checked. File Checker instead calculates the files hash in the browser before passing it on to NordLabs. Once it arrives, the hash is checked against a database of known malicious files that is organized using complex machine learning and AI technologies to provide highly accurate results.
If a file is suspected to be harboring something malicious, the tool will notify the user that they may have something dangerous on their hands. NordLabs has also unveiled a range of other experimental safety products such aslink checkerand a AI phishing assistant browser extension.
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Benedict has been writing about security issues for over 7 years, first focusing on geopolitics and international relations while at the University of Buckingham. During this time he studied BA Politics with Journalism, for which he received a second-class honours (upper division), then continuing his studies at a postgraduate level, achieving a distinction in MA Security, Intelligence and Diplomacy. Upon joining TechRadar Pro as a Staff Writer, Benedict transitioned his focus towards cybersecurity, exploring state-sponsored threat actors, malware, social engineering, and national security. Benedict is also an expert on B2B security products, including firewalls, antivirus, endpoint security, and password management.
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