How likely is it to download malware with pirated movies? (lemmy.world)

submitted 1 year ago by at35@lemmy.world to c/piracy@lemmy.dbzer0.com

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As in title. What's your experience with it? If something isn't executable, then it has to exploit vulnerability in order to run anything malicious. But does it happen often with mp4, mkv and other files like mp3 or epub?

I assume that if I use updated linux, then I'm mostly safe?

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[-] BatteryBunny@kbin.social 5 points 1 year ago

As far as anyone knows there is no way to put malicious code in a video file. What you should be worrying about is how you get those files.

If you're torrenting then you have to worry about copyright trolls contacting your ISP. If you're using file-hosting websites just vet your downloads and make sure you don't run any sketchy executable files. And it should go without saying, but don't escalate privileges for unknown programs.

[-] Homer@lemmy.world 3 points 1 year ago

Not entirely true as you can put malicious code in anything. The bigger question is whether or not your video player is susceptible to that type of attack. I would say the likelihood is low but not impossible. The best defense would be to make sure whatever video player you do use is fully up to date.