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If an ics file contains a virus, can it still do damage when opened with notepad?

Alkyy
By Alkyy
in Programs, Apps and Websites
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Go to solution Solved by HanZie82,

Or upload the file to an online virus scanner just to make sure.
Like https://www.virustotal.com/gui/

But there are plenty more. Also some that use multiple anti-virus suites to test.

Posted

Context:

Ive just found an old ics file in my downloads folder with a 13-digit number as its name that is 4589 bytes large.

I dont recall ever downloading such a thing and I have never used the calendar for anything.

I did some googling and apparently ics files can be viruses that attack the vulnerabilities of calendar apps but, it can also be opened with notepad and such programs.

I am curious as to what it is and so I am wondering whether opening it with notepad is safe or not.

 

Thanks for the future answers.

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Upload it to a virtual machine or cloud service, and attempt to open it from there. A virtual machine will safely open the file but unless you already have one installed don't bother. 

 

The best thing you can do is delete it and then remove it from the recycling bin. If you didn't download it, and it seems fishy, don't poke it. 

Fuck you scalpers, fuck you scammers, fuck all of you jerks that charge way too much to tech-illiterate people. 

Unless I say I am speaking from experience or can confirm my expertise, assume it is an educated guess.

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  • Solution

Or upload the file to an online virus scanner just to make sure.
Like https://www.virustotal.com/gui/

But there are plenty more. Also some that use multiple anti-virus suites to test.

When i ask for more specs, don't expect me to know the answer!
I'm just helping YOU to help YOURSELF!
(The more info you give the easier it is for others to help you out!)

Not willing to capitulate to the ignorance of the masses!

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