What is the EICAR test file?

The EICAR test file (EICAR Standard Anti-Virus Test File) is a test file defined by EICAR (European Institute for Computer Antivirus Research). It contains a fixed text string that almost all antivirus programs recognise as a test signature – without being real malware.

Developers and admins use it to verify that virus scanners respond correctly, email gateways block files, or security pipelines trigger alerts. dummyfiles.dev delivers the file via download or API.

Features

Content: Official EICAR test string. Reported by AV software as a “detection”.

Purpose: Ensure antivirus and security components are working.

Download: Via web form or GET API.

Harmless: No executable code, only text. Safe for humans and systems.

Use cases

• Test antivirus software and detection logic
• Verify email gateways and attachment filters
• Confirm security pipelines and alerting
• Automated tests/pipelines: automated tests of AV integrations

Highlights

• Official EICAR test file
• No registration
• GET API
• Harmless, no real malware

FAQ

Is the EICAR test file dangerous?

No. It only contains a defined text string. No executable code. It is solely for testing antivirus software.

Why do virus scanners detect it?

AV vendors have deliberately added the EICAR signature to their databases so users can test detection.

How do I download the EICAR test file?

Homepage, “EICAR” tab: click “Create file”. Or call the API. The file is offered for download immediately.

Is this suitable for automated tests?

Yes. The API always returns the same test file – ideal for automated tests, pipelines and scripts and for automated security tests.

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