Is Softonic Safe? Recommendations For Secure Downloading of Apps, Softwares, and Games

October 2, 2024 By Christine Margret No Comments 5 minutes

Every day, we come across hundreds of downloading platforms that offer a wide array of software downloads. One such Software distribution company is Softonic. This freeware website lets you download free games, movies, software, and applications.

Multiple apps from softonic and text - Is Softonic Safe

But, many users also doubt it to spread malware. So, I have decided to discuss the most frequently asked question- “Is Softonic safe”? Read on to learn about the risks involved in using this website and for some recommendations for downloading software safely.

Note: If you are using any third-party download site, including Softonic, always use a trusted VPN, just like FastestVPN. With a VPN, you can keep your network secure from intrusion. Also, FastestVPN protects your online information with military-grade encryption and caters to a safe, secure, and private online experience.

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Is Softonic Safe?

As I always say, no internet corner is 100% safe, and the same is the case with Softonic. It is a third-party software download website, and most of the content available on this platform is from free third-party apps, open-source programs, and free-to-play video games.

While Softonic claims to be secure and malware-free, some hidden risks are always involved. I am saying it is not completely secure because the platform doesn’t host all the software on its servers.

It gets the download link from the official site and then provides the download. The problem begins here because the site it fetches the download link may be compromised, and if it is, you will end up downloading a malicious file.

Despite that, Softonic is very popular among users and has never faced many complaints regarding malicious file downloads. So, I would say that Softonic is generally considered partially safe to use.

Risks Associated With Softonic

During my research, I found that users on hypixel.net spotted dodgy ads while downloading weDownloadManger. Some users also claimed that Softonic won’t give you any viruses, but it does give you junkware if you don’t look closely at the checkboxes when you install something. Here are other risks associated with Softonic:

Tracking Users’ Activity

Often, downloading sites have cookies and other tracking software that tracks user activities to collect data and personalize ads. This poses a great privacy risk.

Malicious Pop-ups

Softonic follows an ad monetization model and earns through monetizing its downloads with advertisements. It can redirect you to compromised sites, as there are excessive pop-ups, and hackers can exploit those ads easily.

Vulnerability on Public WiFi Networks

Another risk associated with Softonic is that when you use this platform on a public network to download games and apps, hackers can easily intercept the network to steal your private information. In worst cases, hackers can even get your banking details, like login credentials and other details.

Top Recommendations to Download Safe and Legal Content From Softonic

Here are some tips and recommendations to keep your downloading secure at Softonic.

1. Use FastestVPN

FastestVPN encrypts your connection and secures your online activities from ISPs and third parties. It also adds an extra layer of privacy and security by hiding your IP address and location. In this way, it makes it impossible for anyone to track your downloading activities or target you. Moreover, FastestVPN also offers an ad-blocker to block malicious ads on Softonic. Lastly, with FastestVPN, you can change your location to download gaming apps that are not available in your region.

2. Verify the Website Link

Softonic has various versions in different languages. Therefore, it is important to verify the URL that you are using for downloads. Verifying the URL link via Sitechecker will ensure that you are using a legitimate site.

3. Use Antivirus Program

If you are using Softonic, it is recommended to use a reliable antivirus program and test everything before using it. An antivirus adds an extra layer of protection by detecting malware and viruses that may cause damage to your device.

4. Download Recognize Software

For safe downloads, search for reputable and popular apps that have ratings and reviews. Reviews will help you evaluate safety. Despite that, Softonic filters software based on security, but it is advisable to be extra cautious and choose trusted and reliable software only.

What Are the Best Alternatives to Softonic?

If you want to try other safe websites for downloading software, you can check these alternatives to Softonic:

1. Softpedia

Softpedia is a popular alternative to Softonic. It is an excellent download portal for various software applications, games, and more. It offers a catalog of 1.4 million apps and regularly refreshes 180 new apps. You can sign up to start using this platform.

2. FileHippo

Another great Softonic alternative is FileHippo. If you want free software or updates for popular ones, you can always rely on this platform. Its user interface is simple and offers fast downloads. The best thing about FileHippo is that it is free from viruses and ads. You can also use different features on this site, such as pausing and resuming downloads. The only drawback is that developers cannot directly upload software to this site.

3. CNET

CNET offers a wide range of software and apps to download. You can find different apps categories like security, games, utilities, and many others. It’s a reliable software repository, and its parent company also provides detailed reviews of what’s coming and other related information about software selection.

4. Uptodown

Uptodown has gained popularity for Android app downloads while catering to Windows and Mac users. With around 130 million users, support for over 15 languages, and a vast library of over 2.5 million apps, it offers a secure download experience by scanning software for threats using tools like VirusTotal.

FAQs- Is Softonic Safe?

Does Softonic scan files for viruses?

With the help of automated systems and manual checks, Softonic scans files for viruses. Moreover, their system is good enough to check each file through multiple antivirus programs to detect potential malware before users download them.

Can I Download Free Games with Softonic?

Yes, Softonic offers a wide variety of games and all these are sorted according to their categories. It means that you can easily find whatever you are looking for. However, it is recommended to follow security practices to keep your downloading experience secure.

Does Softonic Have Background Installations?

There are some reports that indicate that Softonic performs background installations of toolbars or software without your knowledge. It is advised to closely watch the installation process and opt out of additional installation when you see the option for it. If not, you can also try other Softonic alternatives mentioned above in this guide.

What is Softonic Controversy?

Previously, Softonic has faced some controversies related to its security and privacy. One of the most common rumour was reported installations of bundled software and toolbars without users consent. Besides that, users also noticed adware and potentially unwanted programs while downloading using this platform. These concerns have raised fingers on the platform's reliability and security. However, Softonic made sure that it has taken action to resolve these issues by improving its security measures and strict screening process for hosted files.

Conclusion

That’s all! This blog was all about Is Softonic safe? I have tried to answer that mainly, and besides that I also covered recommendations to safely download from the same website. Softonic is not completely safe to use. If you want to use it, use an antivirus program and a VPN in combination to stay secure.