Deciphering VirusTotal Results: Avoiding the ‘False Positive’ Trap

In the realm of cybersecurity, understanding VirusTotal (VT) results is crucial for accurate assessment of potential threats. Many users mistakenly label files as “probably false positives” based solely on a few antivirus detections. Recently, I recognized the fallacy in this approach, and I’m here to clarify why a careful evaluation of VT results is essential.

The Importance of Understanding Detection

Before diving into analysis, I recommend checking out this insightful video by MalwareAnalysisForHedgehogs. It provides a great foundation for interpreting what you can expect from VirusTotal: Watch here.

Key Points to Consider

1. Reanalyze the File

Detection capabilities evolve over time, so submitting the same file for analysis can yield different results. Check if the file has been previously scanned, as this can influence the current detection figures.

2. Evaluate the malware Names

Understanding the specific threats is vital. For instance, if a file is labeled as “not-a-virus,” it implies that, while it may be misused, it isn’t inherently malicious. Different antivirus vendors may apply various classifications, affecting how you perceive the results.

3. Analyze Technical Details

• Verify File Type: Confirm that the file matches its claimed type.
• Submit Dates: If the file was submitted before the official release date of the Software, it’s possible that it’s a recycled malware sample.
• File Name Changes: Be wary of files that have been renamed to obscure their true nature; benign names like “update.exe” or random strings can often mask malicious intent.

4. Examine Behavioral Indicators

• Investigate the actions taken by the file, such as dropped files or registry changes. A legitimate Software update should not be disabling critical security features like Windows Defender.
• Pay attention to specific functions called, such as GetTickCount, which malware might exploit to evade detection in virtual machines.

5. Community Insights

The VirusTotal community can offer additional perspectives, though sifting through comments can sometimes be overwhelming. Engaging with user insights is often more beneficial than focusing purely on voting scores.

Additional Tools for Threat Analysis

Beyond VirusTotal, several other platforms can aid in your research:
– ANY.RUN: A dynamic malware analysis platform that lets you