Many downloads are always offered anywhere and we all know how dangerous some internet downloads really are.
Being careful is priority number one when it comes to downloads.
Because we need to protect our device, our data stored on it, as well as our coins, of course.

Downloads are inherently risky to our devices and should be avoided as often as possible. If in doubt, don’t do any download. Especially downloads related to crypto are often a target for hackers and malicious attacks.

Downloads to all devices are risky but experts have found out which devices are more vulnerable to malicious downloads:
- Mobile devices are most vulnerable, especially from unknown fabricators or from China, which are controlled by China’s regime.
- Windows devices are vulnerable because Windows is often targeted by hackers.
- Apple’s Mac and especially Linux devices (penguin) are less vulnerable to but of course, owners should also protect Linux device or Mac from hackers and be very very careful and avoid downloads.

Keep in mind: less vulnerable still means we should protect our devices, of course. We should always avoid internet downloads.


Open source vs. closed source

Open source means, it is possible for every coder to have a look into it, if it’s coded correctly or if any malicious parts for attacks are coded into a program.
While in closed source, it is not possible for coders to review it.
Open source is very important to avoid possible malware downloads. Of course, open source isn’t a guarantee to be safe and even experienced coders can make mistakes in coding or reviewing it or if it’s offered on a scam and phishing site. Better stay away, as pointed out earlier because downloads are inherently risky.


Ask for coder’s review of GitHub

Serious coders are always publishing on GitHub or make a program’s code visible as a part of open source act.
Because we are no coders, we need to rely on educated coder reviews and opinions of experts. If in doubt, we can ask a question here on Bitcointalk and a coder will look into it.
(Almost) every coder knows about GibHub and can access it as well.


Caution is our best insurance against malicious downloads and hackers
If we don’t make a download, we can not download a virus.
It’s a very clear fact.
We should avoid any unnecessary download and if we really need one (like Electrum), we should inform us if it’s open source and if in question, avoid it.
A random download doesn’t justify to risk damaging our device, our data stored on it, as well as our coins, of course.

Make sure to protect your device from malware due to downloads.