Is anyone else concerned about files uploaded by leads and clients containing viruses or trojans, if so how are you dealing with it?
Hi Rodney!
Great question, and a smart thing to be thinking about! While no system is 100% risk-free, following some basic internet safety habits goes a long way:
Be cautious with unexpected links and attachments. If a “lead” you’ve never spoken with sends a link or file out of the blue, treat it with suspicion (especially if the message feels generic or pushes you to open something urgently).
Verify the sender. If a file seems off (strange file name, unexpected format, or it doesn’t match what you discussed), reach out to the client directly through a channel you trust before opening it.
Watch out for unusual file types. Photos, PDFs, and standard documents are typical for project files. Be wary of files ending in .exe, .zip, or anything asking you to “enable macros” or install something.
Keep your devices protected. Make sure your computer’s operating system and antivirus software are up to date, most modern antivirus tools automatically scan downloaded files.
Trust your gut. If something feels phishy, it probably is. It’s always okay to ask a client to resend a file or confirm what they sent.