Eliminating file-based threats: A practical approach from Opswat

Files sent over the Internet, downloaded from e-mails or copied to USB drives can pose a serious security threat to businesses and individual users. Cybercriminals use PDF documents, Excel sheets, Word files and other formats to infect computers with malware. Simply opening an infected file can lead to a ransomware attack, take control of a system or steal sensitive data.

Opswat MetaDefender is an advanced security platform that eliminates file-based threats through multi-layer content analysis. Using Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) technology and multi-engine scanning, Opswat effectively neutralizes hidden threats in files before they are opened.

In this article, we will outline how Opswat MetaDefender protects against file-based cyber threats and what are the best practices for eliminating such threats.

Key findings

• Files are one of the main vectors of cyberattacks, especially in the form of PDF documents, Office files and ZIP archives.
• Opswat MetaDefender uses CDR (Content Disarm and Reconstruction) technology to neutralize threats in files.
• Multi-engine scanning can detect even the most advanced threats.
• Eliminating file-based threats is key to protecting companies from phishing and ransomware.
• RamsData helps companies deploy Opswat MetaDefender, providing effective protection against file-based threats.

Table of contents

1. What are the risks of files sent over the Internet?
2. What is Opswat MetaDefender and how does it work?
3. CDR technology – how does it neutralize threats in files?
4. Advantages of multi-engine scanning in Opswat MetaDefender
5. How to implement Opswat MetaDefender in a company?
6. Best practices for eliminating file-based threats
7. Frequently asked questions

What are the risks of files sent over the Internet?

Cybercriminals have been using files to spread malware for years. The most commonly used attack methods are:

• Macros in Office documents – infected Word and Excel files may contain scripts that automatically download malware when the document is opened.
• Hidden exploits in PDF files – can exploit vulnerabilities in popular document-opening programs.
• Malicious executable files (EXE, DLL, MSI) – install malware on the user’s computer.
• ZIP and RAR files with hidden malware – archives may contain malicious scripts that run when unpacked.

These attacks are often used in phishing – the user receives an e-mail with a seemingly legitimate document that, when opened, infects the system. Therefore, it is crucial to scan and neutralize files before opening them.

What is Opswat MetaDefender and how does it work?

Opswat MetaDefender is a security platform that analyzes files for threats and removes potentially dangerous elements even before they are opened.

Opswat MetaDefender’s main features:

• Multi-engine scanning – analyzing files using more than 30 antivirus engines simultaneously.
• CDR (Content Disarm and Reconstruction) – removing malicious file components while preserving their functionality.
• Metadata analysis – detecting suspicious changes in files and data structures.
• Integration with IT systems – ability to work with mail servers, network security systems and corporate infrastructure.

CDR technology – how does it neutralize threats in files?

CDR (Content Disarm and Reconstruction) is a technology used by Opswat MetaDefender that analyzes and rebuilds files in such a way as to remove potential threats.

CDR Action:

1. Decomposing the file into components – identifying all the components of the document.
2. Removal of potentially dangerous content – elimination of macros, embedded scripts and hidden executables.
3. File reconstruction – reassembling the document in a way that guarantees its security.

Advantages of multi-engine scanning in Opswat MetaDefender

Multi-motor scanning provides superior threat detection because it uses multiple different antivirus technologies simultaneously. As a result:

• It minimizes the risk of overlooking a threat – if one engine fails to detect malware, another can identify it.
• It provides faster response to new threats – different antivirus vendors update their databases at different rates.
• Eliminates false alarms – comparing results from multiple sources avoids false detections.

How to implement Opswat MetaDefender in a company?

1. Analysis of IT infrastructure – determining which file sharing channels need protection.
2. Opswat MetaDefender integration – implementing the system in mail servers, local network and Internet gateways.
3. Configure security policies – define which files should be automatically filtered and modified.
4. Monitoring of system effectiveness – ongoing analysis and optimization of settings.

Best practices for eliminating file-based threats

• Automatic email file scanning – Opswat MetaDefender’s integration with email servers to detect threats in attachments.
• Cloud file filtering – scan files stored in SaaS systems and collaboration tools.
• USB media protection – automatic analysis of files copied to portable devices.
• Employee training – educating employees on cyber security and recognizing potential threats.

Can Opswat MetaDefender scan any type of files?

Yes, Opswat MetaDefender supports a wide range of file formats, including PDF, Microsoft Office documents, ZIP/RAR files, ISO images and executable files (EXE, DLL). This allows the system to effectively neutralize threats hidden in various types of attachments and downloaded files.

How effective is CDR technology in removing threats?

Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) technology removes any potentially dangerous elements from files, eliminating macros, scripts and embedded objects that may contain malicious code. Unlike traditional virus scanners, CDR does not rely on signature databases, so it effectively detects and neutralizes even new, previously unknown threats.

Can Opswat MetaDefender be integrated into existing IT infrastructure?

Yes, Opswat MetaDefender is fully compatible with mail servers, network security systems, IT monitoring solutions such as CheckMK, and cloud platforms. It can be deployed in an organization both locally and in a cloud model.

Does Opswat MetaDefender protect against ransomware?

Yes, the platform effectively detects and neutralizes files containing ransomware before they are opened. Thanks to multi-engine scanning and CDR technology, threats are eliminated even before files are delivered to the user, minimizing the risk of infecting corporate systems.