How to Use VirusTotal to Check APK Files Before Installing (2025 Guide)

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As MOD APKs become more popular in 2025, so do the risks of downloading malware hidden inside APK files. While some APK sites are safe (like namoapk.com), others may distribute dangerous versions with spyware, ransomware, or adware.

That’s where VirusTotal comes in — a free, cloud-based tool that scans any APK file with 60+ antivirus engines in seconds.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to use VirusTotal to safely check APKs before installing, so you never risk infecting your Android device.

What Is VirusTotal?

VirusTotal is a security service owned by Google. It allows users to upload files or paste URLs to check for viruses, trojans, malware, and other threats using multiple antivirus engines.

It supports scanning:

  • .apk files
  • .apks, .xapk, .obb formats (as ZIP/EXE)
  • Direct URLs
  • ZIP folders containing APKs

Why Use VirusTotal for MOD APKs?

Because even MOD APKs from trusted sources can:

  • Be repacked with malicious code
  • Contain spyware or hidden ads
  • Trigger Google Play Protect warnings
  • Request risky permissions

Using VirusTotal before installing helps ensure the APK is clean and safe.

How to Use VirusTotal to Scan APK Files

Here’s a step-by-step guide.

Option 1: Scan APK Using VirusTotal Website

  1. Visit: https://www.virustotal.com
  2. Click on the “Choose File” button.
  3. Upload your .apk, .xapk, or .apks file (max 650MB).
  4. Wait for the scan to complete — it usually takes 10–20 seconds.
  5. Check the results:
  • Green = Clean
  • Red = One or more antivirus engines flagged it

🔍 How to Read the Results:

  • 0/60: Safe
  • 1–2/60: Possibly safe, but double-check source
  • 3+/60: Do not install — likely infected

Option 2: Use VirusTotal Android App (Unofficial)

While there’s no official Android app by VirusTotal, some third-party tools allow you to scan APKs directly from your phone.

Trusted options:

  • VT4Mobile (Unofficial VirusTotal client)
  • Online scan via browser

Be cautious with unofficial apps. Use them only to upload files to VirusTotal.

Bonus Tip: Scan Before & After Installation

To be extra safe:

  1. Scan the APK before you install
  2. Install it
  3. Use antivirus like Bitdefender or Norton to scan the app again once installed

Can You Scan Installed APKs with VirusTotal?

Yes! Here’s how:

  • Use a file explorer (like ZArchiver) to extract the .apk from your phone’s Android/data or app folders
  • Upload the .apk to VirusTotal

You can also download the APK from a trusted source again and scan it.

Tools That Help Extract APKs for VirusTotal

ToolUse
APK ExtractorPulls APKs from installed apps
ZArchiverOpens and inspects .apks, .xapk, .obb
File Manager+Locates and copies APKs

Key Safety Tips When Using VirusTotal

  • Don’t install APKs with 3+ detections
  • Look at engine names — Google, Kaspersky, Bitdefender are more accurate than unknown ones
  • Scan every file, even if it’s from a Telegram or Discord group
  • Be cautious of fake versions of real apps
  • Read the APK permissions even after a clean VirusTotal report

Example: Scanning a MOD APK with VirusTotal

Let’s say you download Spotify-Premium-MOD.apk from a website.

  1. Upload it to VirusTotal
  2. It shows 0/66 detection = ✅ safe
  3. You install and monitor behavior
  4. App runs fine, no extra permissions = Clean install

Now let’s say you try a fake YouTube MOD.

  1. VirusTotal shows 8/61 — malware flagged
  2. App asks for camera and mic access
  3. You delete it and report the file

Final Thoughts: Why VirusTotal is a Must-Use in 2025

With advanced spyware and fake apps spreading through modded APKs, you can’t afford to skip virus checks.

VirusTotal is 100% free, fast, and trusted by millions.

Before you install your next MOD APK:

  • Stay safe and malware-free
  • Download from a trusted source (like namoapk.com)
  • Scan with VirusTotal

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