Always scan downloaded software with VirusTotal before installation and run it in a sandboxed environment like Triage to prevent system compromise. Note that any apps with fake names are generally not worth using. Many popular file hosts have download buttons that redirect to fake malicious download pages. Using the full version of uBlock Origin can prevent this but it doesn't always work. Read this guide to learn what fake malicious download pages look like and how to avoid them. A general rule is to avoid download pages that open in a new tab or redirected page, real downloads happen within the same page as the file host.

Some Open Directories track IP addresses. Always use a VPN or Tor when accessing these resources.

General DDL sites use multiple sources, so it's best to avoid them for software and games. If needed, use redirect bypassers to skip link shorteners. Many popular file hosts have download buttons that redirect to fake malicious download pages. Using the full version of uBlock Origin can prevent this but it doesn't always work. Read this guide to learn what fake malicious download pages look like and how to avoid them. A general rule is to avoid download pages that open in a new tab or redirected page, real downloads happen within the same page as the file host.

These aggregate from multiple sources, so it's best to avoid them for software / games.