Understanding VirusTotal Results: Debunking the “False Positive” Myth
In the realm of cybersecurity, interpreting VirusTotal (VT) results can be a daunting task. Many users tend to downplay findings, labeling them as “probably a false positive” when only a handful of antivirus solutions flag a file. However, this assumption can be misleading and potentially harmful.
Note: I’ve held similar assumptions in the past, so I completely empathize with anyone still grappling with this issue.
A Helpful Resource
For those seeking clarity, I highly recommend checking out the informative video by MalwareAnalysisForHedgehogs. It offers valuable insights into understanding the various elements present in VirusTotal. You can watch it here.
Key Factors to Consider in VirusTotal Results
Detection Trends
- Reanalysis is Crucial: If your file hasn’t been recently analyzed, be sure to recheck it. Detection rates can evolve over time, and VT can provide details on previous scans.
- Examine malware Labels: Understand the significance of different labels. For example, terms like “not-a-virus” indicate that a file isn’t inherently malicious, but it could be misused. However, not all antivirus vendors utilize this classification.
File Information
- Verify File Authenticity: Ensure that the file type matches what it claims to be.
- Submission Date Matters: Take note of the first submission date. If it predates when the Software was officially released, there’s a chance that you’re dealing with recycled malware.
- Review Alternate Names: If the file is associated with entirely different names, it may have been renamed for deceptive purposes. Common names like update.exe or random character strings can often be disregarded.
Behavioral Analysis
- Monitor File Activity: Analyze the files it drops, deletes, or alters. If it’s accessing areas it shouldn’t, that raises a red flag.
- Registry Changes: A legitimate Software update shouldn’t be disabling vital system functions like Defender, command prompt, or task manager.
- Highlighted Calls: Pay attention to functions like GetTickCount, which some malware might use to identify virtual machines to evade detection (more on this [here](https://www.fireeye.com/blog/threat-research/
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