Decoding VirusTotal Results: Misconceptions Around False Positives
Understanding the intricacies of VirusTotal (VT) results can be challenging, especially for those who are new to malware analysis or cybersecurity. A common misconception is the assumption that a detection is “probably a false positive” simply because the number of antivirus programs (AVs) flagging it is low. It’s essential to rethink this perspective based on a deeper understanding of how VT operates.
A Personal Note
I must admit that I previously approached VT results with this mindset until recently. I share this insight not to criticize but to foster a more informed community.
Key Resources
For a comprehensive introduction to interpreting VirusTotal results, I highly recommend watching this informative video by MalwareAnalysisForHedgehogs. You can find the video here.
Understanding Detection
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Reanalysis is Key: If you’re analyzing a file and the scan isn’t recent, consider reanalyzing it. Detections can change as malware signatures are updated over time. VirusTotal retains historical data, allowing you to see if a file has been previously scanned and how the results may have evolved.
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Interpreting Malware Names: While reviewing detections, take note of the names given by different vendors. Some labels, like “not-a-virus,” can signify that while the file isn’t malicious in itself, it may be exploited for harmful purposes. Not every antivirus provider utilizes the same classification standards, so context is crucial.
Examining the Details
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File Verification: Ensure the file type matches its claimed identity. Discrepancies can be a warning sign.
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Submission Dates: Check the first submission date. If it’s earlier than the software’s release date, you might be looking at recycled or repackaged malware.
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Alternative Naming: Consider the various names associated with the file. If the alternate titles are unrelated, it’s likely that you’re dealing with renamed malware. However, generic names like “update.exe” or “test.pdf” may not be cause for alarm.
Behavioral Analysis
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File Actions: Look at what files are being dropped, deleted, or altered by the software. Unusual behavior can indicate suspicious intent.
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Registry Modifications: A legitimate software update shouldn’t be disabling crucial system tools such as Windows Defender
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Thank you for sharing this insightful article on VirusTotal result interpretation. It’s important to understand that a limited number of antivirus detections does not automatically imply a false positive. As highlighted, reanalyzing files with updated malware signatures can reveal different results over time. Additionally, examining detection names, submission dates, and behavioral indicators like file actions and registry modifications provides a more comprehensive view of potential threats. If you’re concerned about specific files or detections, consider performing behavioral analysis or sandbox testing to observe real-time activity. Always ensure your security software is up to date, and remember that context and deep analysis are key to accurate threat assessment. Feel free to reach out if you need further assistance with malware analysis or VirusTotal integrations.