NCSAM 2025 – Files from the Void: Malicious Downloads and Attachments

This month, strange files have been appearing across campus networks—email attachments with cryptic names, downloads from questionable sites, files shared by “someone” you don’t remember meeting.

They seem harmless at first. Just a PDF. Just a ZIP folder. Just a quick download.

But these aren’t ordinary files. These are artifacts.

And once opened, they don’t just infect a single device—they spread, corrupting everything they touch.

What Happens When You Open an “Alien Artifact”?

• It replicates.
  Malware hides in unknown files—once opened, it can duplicate itself, spreading to your contacts, shared drives, and devices.

• It spies.
  Some files contain spyware that silently watches your activity, steals passwords, and records sensitive information.

• It controls.
  Trojans and remote access tools can give attackers control of your computer, letting them move undetected in your system.

• It destroys.
  In worst-case scenarios, these files trigger ransomware, locking you out of your data until you pay up—or wipe it all clean.

Warning Signs of a Digital Artifact

• You weren’t expecting the file.
• The file extension is weird (.exe, .scr, .js attached to an email).
• It came from someone you don’t recognize—or someone who’s been “acting strange.”
• The message is vague: “Check this out!” “Urgent info!” “Must open now!”
• Your antivirus throws a warning—but you click anyway.

Protect Yourself from Infection

• Never open files you weren’t expecting—even from someone you know.
  Always verify with the sender via a separate method (text, phone, or in person).
• Use antivirus and keep it updated.
  Your antivirus may be your last line of defense before an artifact infects your system.
• Preview with caution.
  On some platforms, even previewing can trigger scripts. Download and scan first if unsure.
• Avoid downloading files from sketchy sites.
  If the website looks off, has tons of popups, or redirects repeatedly—get out.
  

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Remember: In a world where files can carry alien-level threats, your curiosity could be your downfall.

This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, trust no file.

Stay tuned for next week’s Phish Files update—there’s more lurking in the shadows.

Want to Learn More?

Kaspersky | HTML Attachments: A Gateway for Malware?

Apple | Safety tips for handling email attachments and content downloaded from the Internet

Microsoft | How malware can infect your PC

Microsoft | Safe Attachments for SharePoint, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams