I recently downloaded a rar file that contained an executable (exe) and a dynamic link library (dll) file. I didn't actually open or run either file; I only extracted them to my desktop briefly because I wanted to upload them to a virus scanning service. The service flagged the dll file quite heavily, but I ended up deleting both files and the rar archive afterward. I have WinRAR version 7.20 installed, and I ran a scan with Windows Defender, which found nothing. Am I at risk of infection just from extracting the files?
3 Answers
Nope, you won't get infected just by extracting files. As long as you didn't run the exe or dll, and your User Account Control (UAC) is enabled, it's unlikely anything would run without your permission.
You're pretty safe! Just extracting files usually doesn't execute anything, so you won't get infected unless you accidentally click on the files while dragging them. DLLs need to have a program running them to be active, and you didn't open anything, so it sounds like you're good to go.
I have heard stories about infections from extracted files, but that's typically when someone accidentally launches them. If you didn't click on anything, you should be in the clear. Always good to be cautious, though!
Related Questions
How to Build a Custom GPT Journalist That Posts Directly to WordPress
Cloudflare Origin SSL Certificate Setup Guide
How To Effectively Monetize A Site With Ads