The EICAR test file is a harmless standard sample that antivirus software detects as a test signature.

Drop it into a scanner, mail gateway or upload filter and confirm that detection and alerting fire.

Can I use it commercially?

Yes for testing. The EICAR file is an official AV test sample — use it only to verify scanners and filters, never as real malware.

How was it generated?

We serve the official EICAR Standard Anti-Virus Test File, a 68-byte text string recognised by most antivirus products.

EICAR is a fixed 68-byte sample. For large dummy files use PDF, ZIP or BIN instead.

All EICAR sizes

Download the EICAR test file. Harmless virus test file, 68 bytes, detected by most scanners.

Go to generator

Official EICAR test string (68 bytes). Harmless. Antivirus software should flag it on purpose.

What is this file?: The EICAR test file is a harmless standard sample that antivirus software detects as a test signature.
How can I use it?: Drop it into a scanner, mail gateway or upload filter and confirm that detection and alerting fire.
Can I use it commercially?: Yes for testing. The EICAR file is an official AV test sample — use it only to verify scanners and filters, never as real malware.
How was it generated?: We serve the official EICAR Standard Anti-Virus Test File, a 68-byte text string recognised by most antivirus products.
Are larger files available?: EICAR is a fixed 68-byte sample. For large dummy files use PDF, ZIP or BIN instead.