Enhanced protection from NordVPN: Scan downloading files for viruses

NordVPN scans the files you’re downloading and stops the malware before it can reach your device.

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.

Woman checking a file to see if it’s safe.

Researcher explaining common virus scanning methods.

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 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 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.

Start scanning your downloads for viruses

Turn Threat Protection on and let it take care of everything.

Open the NordVPN app.

Click on the shield icon.

Turn on file protection.

To enable advanced scanning, toggle the switch next to “Cloud-based threat detection.”

Man with a laptop protected by NordVPN’s security bubble.

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 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”.

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30-day money-back guarantee — no questions, no hassle. Safer browsing is just a click away.

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