Decoding VirusTotal Results: What to Know About Detection and Analysis

Navigating the labyrinth of VirusTotal results can be challenging, especially if you’re new to analyzing file safety. It’s easy to assume that a file is harmless if only a few antivirus engines flag it, but this can be misleading. Here’s a deeper look into how to interpret VirusTotal findings effectively.

Disclaimer: I once held the belief that low detection rates often indicated a false positive, so I’m not here to judge anyone who may think the same.

Understanding the Detection Landscape

It’s crucial to approach VirusTotal results with a critical eye. Detection rates can change over time, so follow these steps for a thorough analysis:

1. Re-analyze Files: If your file was scanned in the past, consider re-evaluating it. Threat detection is not static; new signatures are continuously updated by antivirus vendors, and previous scans may not reflect the current threat landscape.

2. Examine Malware Classifications: Assess the names assigned to detected threats. For instance, categories like not-a-virus indicate a file is not inherently malicious, but it could be exploited for harmful purposes. Keep in mind that not all security vendors use the same naming conventions.

Detailed Examination

Next, delve into the specifics of the file in question:

• Verify File Authenticity: Confirm that the file type aligns with its stated format. A discrepancy here can be a red flag.

• Check Submission Dates: Look at the first submission date of the file in VirusTotal. If it predates the official release of the software or file you’re investigating, it may be a repurposed malware sample.

• Investigate Aliases: Analyze other names associated with the file. If they relate to entirely different subjects, it might indicate that the file has been renamed for malicious purposes. However, names like update.exe or test.pdf can usually be disregarded.

Behavioral Analysis

Understanding how a file interacts with the system can unveil its true nature:

• Monitor File Operations: Review what the file drops, deletes, or writes. If it’s modifying system files or directories in unusual ways, exercise caution.

• Registry Changes: A legitimate software update shouldn’t be disabling security features like Windows Defender or altering critical system functions.

• Highlighted Calls: Pay attention to certain function