Before opening the file, analysts look at it from the outside:
Is it searching for sensitive files (like wallet.dat or browser cookies) to send back to an attacker? 5. Conclusion / Flag EvilStepmom3.zip
The actual "evil" part is often encoded (Base64 or Hex) to hide its true intent from basic antivirus software. Before opening the file, analysts look at it
Malicious shortcuts or .bat / .ps1 scripts designed to look like harmless documents (e.g., Instruction.txt.lnk ). Before opening the file