Free Malware Sample Sources for Researchers

Malware researchers frequently seek malware samples to analyze threat techniques and develop defenses. In addition to downloading samples from known malicious URLs, researchers can obtain malware samples from the following free sources:

Be careful not to infect yourself when accessing and experimenting with malicious software.

My other lists of online security resources outline Automated Malware Analysis Services and On-Line Tools for Malicious Website Lookups. Also, take a look at tips sharing malware samples with other researchers.

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About the Author

I transform ideas into successful outcomes, building on my 25 years of experience in cybersecurity. As the CISO at Axonius, I lead the security program to earn customers' trust. I'm also a Faculty Fellow at SANS Institute, where I author and deliver training for incident responders. The diversity of cybersecurity roles I've held over the years and the accumulated expertise, allow me to create practical solutions that drive business growth.

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