MalwareTips File Scan review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Nov 2026

MalwareTips File Scan is a browser-based service for checking files and file hashes for malware. It fits individuals and small teams who want free file checks with broad antivirus-engine coverage, plus analysis beyond engine detections. It is file-focused rather than a general-purpose scanner: it does not scan URLs or computers, so those needs call for another tool.

Hash lookup is a useful part of the workflow. The service computes a file’s SHA-256 fingerprint in the browser before upload, checks known hashes, and can open an existing report without re-uploading a known sample. It also accepts SHA-256, SHA-1, and MD5 hashes or file names for lookup. For a new file, submission to VirusTotal happens only after user confirmation. Once submitted, the file is checked against 70+ antivirus engines and receives static analysis, YARA checks, reference-database lookups, and an AI-generated verdict with supporting evidence and caveats.

The service is free, and MalwareTips states there is no paid tier. Its limits matter for file handling: guests can submit files up to 64 MB, while signed-in members can submit files up to 95 MB. Reports are public, and the service warns against uploading personal or confidential documents. That makes it a better fit for non-sensitive samples and hash research than private document screening. Choose it for free, multi-engine file checks and layered analysis; choose an alternative if you need URL or computer scanning, or cannot submit files to a service that publishes reports.

MalwareTips File Scan pros and cons

• Where it wins
  • Checks files against 70+ antivirus engines and applies YARA rules.
  • Looks up SHA-256, SHA-1, and MD5 hashes without re-uploading known files.
  • Adds static analysis and AI verdicts with supporting evidence and caveats.
• Where it doesn't
  • Scans files only; it does not scan URLs or computers.
  • File uploads are sent to VirusTotal, and reports are public.
  • File size is limited to 64 MB for guests and 95 MB for signed-in members.

MalwareTips File Scan fact sheet, pricing and score →

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Last updated 14 Nov 2026 · How we research and update