Survival Guide
The free internet has a few unwritten rules. Before you start clicking, read these 5 golden rules to avoid fake links, annoying ads, and dangerous files.
Rule #1
π« The "Fake Download Button" Trap
Hosting files is expensive, so sites pay for servers using ads. The most common trick is placing a massive, flashing "DOWNLOAD NOW" ad right next to the real link.
- The real button is usually smaller, plain text, or requires you to wait 10 seconds.
- If it says "Start Download" and looks like a shiny banner, it's an ad.
- Solution: Use the uBlock Origin extension from our Tools page!
Rule #2
π The File Extension Test
This is the most important security rule on the internet. You must look at the last 3 letters of the file you just downloaded.
- If you download a Movie, it should be
.mp4 or .mkv.
- If you download a Book, it should be
.pdf or .epub.
- DANGER: If you download a movie or book and it ends in
.exe, .msi, or .vbs, DELETE IT IMMEDIATELY. It is a virus.
Rule #3
πͺ The "Pop-Under" Tab Rule
When you click the screen to play a video or click a link, a new tab might suddenly open. This is called a "pop-under" ad.
- Do not interact with the new tab. Do not read it. Do not click anything inside it.
- Instantly close the new tab and go back to your original page. You may have to do this 2 or 3 times before the real video plays.
Rule #4
β³ Navigating Link Shorteners
Sites often hide their real links behind services like AdFly, Linkvertise, or OuO. These pages force you to view ads before giving you the file.
- Never click "Allow Notifications" if the site asks. Click "Deny" or close the prompt.
- Look for a small button that says "Skip Ad" or "Free Access with Ads" after a timer runs out.
- Pro Tip: Install the 'FastForward' extension from our Tools page to bypass these automatically.
Rule #5
π The Archive Password Secret
Sometimes you will download a PC Game or Software in a .rar or .zip file, and when you try to extract it, it asks for a password.
- Don't panic! You don't need to pay for it.
- 99% of the time, the password is simply the URL of the website you downloaded it from (e.g.,
www.site-name.com or just site-name.com).
- Always check the page you downloaded the file from; they usually list the password right below the link.