Is Softonic Safe? Download Games & Apps Securely in 2025

Softonic is one of the first sites that shows up when you search for free apps, games, or APKs. But if you’ve been reading vpnMentor articles for a while, you’ll know that we never recommend downloading software from anywhere but its official site.

So, here’s what you need to know about Softonic. Is Softonic safe to use? Its 100 million monthly users¹ must think that the site is worth using, but that doesn’t mean there are no lurking threats.

Some users download without issues, but others end up with pop-ups, bundled software, or files that antivirus software flags as threats. In this guide, I’ll help you figure out when Softonic is safe and when it’s not, as well as what you can do to protect your device while downloading. Whether you’re on PC, Android, or just looking for a trusted place to grab an app, you'll get all the info needed here.

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Is Softonic Safe?

Softonic isn’t a scam site, but it’s not exactly clean either. The platform itself isn’t a virus, and many of the apps it hosts are legitimate. I tested several different apps and didn’t find any threats.

I even scanned.exe files from reputed developers on MalwareBytes, and they were all clean

The platform hasn’t suffered any major data breaches, but it was penalized by Google in 2014 for manipulative SEO tactics.

Plus, Softonic’s long been criticized for bundling downloads with extra software. These extras might include toolbars, trackers, or trial versions of unrelated programs that silently install if you click through too quickly. While Softonic claims to scan files for viruses, its checks aren't as transparent or thorough as what you'd find on official app stores or developer websites.

Worse, not all downloads on Softonic come directly from the software creator. Some are repackaged in Softonic's custom installers, which can introduce security vulnerabilities or prompt unnecessary system changes. Even if the core app is safe, how it’s delivered might not be.

That doesn’t mean everything on Softonic is a threat. However, you need to treat every download with caution. If you’re not actively scanning files, reading installation prompts carefully, and using security tools to stay protected, it’s easy to end up with software you didn’t ask for.

Risks Associated With Softonic Downloads

Is Softonic legit? Yes — it’s a real company that’s been around for over two decades and hosts millions of downloads. But being legit doesn’t mean it’s always safe. It’s important to stay cautious, even when using a well-known site. These are the risks you face when downloading from Softonic:

• Installer tampering. Some apps are modified or wrapped in Softonic’s custom installers. These programs may include background scripts, tracking components, or pre-checked boxes for additional programs that you might not want.
• Aggressive advertising. Softonic pages are packed with deceptive ads and fake download buttons that can redirect you to shady sites or trigger unwanted downloads.
• Malicious APKs. Mobile users downloading APKs face added risks — Android doesn’t warn you about malicious behavior until it’s too late. Some Softonic APKs have been flagged for requesting excessive permissions or carrying adware.
• Lack of transparency. Softonic doesn’t always provide clear information about the source or version of the file. That makes it harder to verify whether you're getting the official release or something that’s been tampered with.
• Difficult cleanup. Once installed, some programs tied to Softonic downloads can be hard to remove. Users often report lingering pop-ups, modified browser settings, or background processes that persist even after uninstallation.

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How to Safely Download Games and Apps on Softonic — 2025 Guide

If you're going to use Softonic, you need to treat every download with caution. Here's how to minimize risk and avoid unwanted software, malware, or system issues:

1. Use a VPN for Safer Browsing and Downloading

How does Softonic make money? Primarily through ads, affiliate links, and bundled software deals that load during the download process. That’s why the site is filled with aggressive ad scripts, pop-ups, and third-party trackers. Even if the file you download is clean, your IP address and browsing habits can still be logged and monetized behind the scenes.

A VPN helps shut that down. It encrypts your connection and hides your real location, blocking Softonic and its ad partners from tracking you.

Some VPNs also block ads and known malware domains automatically, adding another protection layer before the file even reaches your device. Others even offer antivirus protection or scan your downloads for malware so you don’t get a nasty surprise when you start running your new file.

Unfortunately, a VPN can’t always stop you from downloading malicious files or unwanted programs. That’s why I recommend using these tools in combination with antivirus software and good security practices, like the ones I’ve listed below.

2. Verify the Source

Always check where the file is coming from. If Softonic offers a Visit Website or Download from Developer link, use that instead. However, you should hover your cursor over the link to make sure it’s sending you to the developer and not a malicious website.

Files hosted directly by Softonic sometimes come repackaged in their own installers, which may include extras you didn’t ask for. If you can’t clearly determine the source and the official site, you’re better off avoiding the download.

3. Use a Reliable Antivirus Program

A reliable antivirus is super helpful if you’re using third-party download sites. Even if a file looks legitimate, it could be hiding adware, spyware, or worse. Use an antivirus with real-time protection, and don’t ignore alerts. If it flags a Softonic installer as unsafe, there’s a reason. Before opening or running your downloaded application, scan the file you’ve just downloaded.

If it appears safe, then proceed with caution. After installation, run a full system scan to make sure nothing slipped through.

4. Stick to Well-Known Apps

Unverified software can contain hidden backdoors that steal your data or hijack your device. Prioritize apps from reputable developers with a strong web presence and a history of clean software. Even then, you need to be careful — malware can often disguise itself as legitimate applications, and in some cases, may even work as intended while installing harmful programs.

Avoid unknown tools, clones of popular apps and games, or anything that seems too good to be true. The more obscure the app, the higher the risk that it’s bundled with unwanted extras. If you're using Softonic for file-sharing or game mods, make sure you're using a VPN that supports fast and safe torrenting.

5. Beware of Bundled Software

During installation, select Custom or Advanced instead of the default option. This exposes pre-checked boxes for additional programs you never asked for. Uncheck everything that isn’t essential to the app itself. Most unwanted toolbars and pop-ups come from users clicking Next without looking.

6. Check App Reviews

Scroll past the star ratings and read what users are actually saying. Pay attention to comments that mention forced installations, browser changes, pop-ups, or system slowdowns. If multiple people are flagging the same issue, trust them — don’t risk your device.

7. Keep Your Device Fully Updated

New threats are being discovered regularly, so it’s important to always install new updates when they become available. By keeping your operating system, drivers, and software up to date, you minimize how many vulnerabilities exist on your device.

8. Check File Extensions

A file like game_setup.exe is normal. A file like game_setup.exe.zip or game_setup.apk.jar is not. Be suspicious of anything that seems mislabeled or overly compressed — these tricks are often used to bypass antivirus detection.

9. Check for Digital Certificates

A digital certificate verifies the integrity and authenticity of the software you’ve just downloaded. Don’t trust any file without an attached digital certificate.

Fortunately, most operating systems will scan for these automatically when you try to run software for the first time as a built-in security procedure. If your system can’t find an attached or valid digital certificate, you’ll see a warning message pop up that states it couldn’t verify the identity of the software developer.

However, malware has been known to use fake digital certificates, so you can also check the contents of a certificate manually. Find the file you downloaded, right-click it, then click Properties > Digital Signatures > Details > View Certificate. Then, check the following fields:

• Issued to. This is the name of the developer who created the software, which you can use to verify that the software comes from the advertised source.
• Thumbprint. This is the file’s hash value, and it represents the contents of the file when the certificate was created. You can use online tools to upload the file you have, generate a new hash using the algorithm listed in the certificate, and compare it to the thumbprint to check for tampering.
• Valid from/to dates. Don’t trust the file if you’ve downloaded it from outside these dates.

10. Monitor System Behavior

After installing something from Softonic, keep an eye on your system. If your browser homepage changes, pop-ups appear, or performance drops, remove the app and run a full system scan. Many unwanted programs linger in the background even after you’ve uninstalled the source application.

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Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Best Alternatives to Softonic

The best alternative to using Softonic is to download software directly from the developer’s official website. This guarantees that you’re getting an authentic software download that hasn’t been tampered with by a third party.

However, sites like Softonic make it easy to find free, open-source software tools. With that in mind, we’ve found some reputable alternatives that users on Reddit and other software forums recommend:

• FileHippo/CNET. These software platforms are Softonic’s sister sites and host a similar range of software, including games, browsers, document management tools, and drivers. Like Softonic, I found some suspicious-looking software packages on these, so be wary.
• FossHub. FossHub only hosts free and open-source software (FOSS) and claims to stand firmly against bundling, software installers, and other unwanted programs. While its library isn’t as large as Softonic or FileHippo, you’ll be able to find well-known programs on here like Audacity, Calibre, and Blender.
• Uptodown. This platform focuses on Windows and Android apps. Each download is manually reviewed by its editors, and you can read the VirusTotal report for each app on its page. I found a ton of legitimate software downloads here, including file compressors, image editors, and even games like Honkai: Star Rail.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

FAQs on Using Softonic

Does Softonic offer free games?

Yes — Softonic offers a wide variety of free games, including classic PC titles, indie releases, and mobile APKs. But while the games themselves might be free, the download process can be risky. Some files come bundled with toolbars, third-party apps, or modified installers that can compromise your system. To avoid surprises, it’s important to follow safe installation practices.

Do Softonic downloads contain viruses?

They can. While many users download from Softonic without issue, others report files being flagged by antivirus tools, especially when downloading lesser-known apps or modified versions.

Some installers include adware, spyware, or tracking components that silently install in the background. That’s why you should always scan downloaded files and avoid anything that doesn’t come directly from the developer.

Are Softonic APK files safe to download?

APK files from Softonic carry more risk than those from official app stores. These files don’t go through Google Play’s security checks, and some have been found to request excessive permissions or contain embedded adware. If you’re downloading APKs from third-party sites, a reliable VPN can help protect your data and stop malicious domains from loading in the background.

Can I uninstall Softonic software easily?

It depends on how the app was installed. If you used a direct developer link, uninstalling is usually straightforward.

But if you went through Softonic’s custom installer, there’s a good chance extra apps, browser extensions, or startup programs came with it. These extra programs may not be easy to find.

These can linger on your system and slow it down, even after you remove the main software. Our step-by-step section explains how to spot and avoid bundled installs so you don’t have to deal with cleanup later.

Is Softonic safe for Mac, iOS, PC, and other devices?

Softonic mainly targets Windows and Android users, but it does list downloads for Mac and iOS as well. Regardless of your device, using a VPN that blocks trackers and malicious sites will go a long way in keeping you protected.

That’s because the same risks apply across all platforms — misleading ads, repackaged installers, and tracking scripts. On Mac, you’re less likely to encounter malware but still vulnerable to unwanted software and system tweaks. If you’re an iOS user, you should avoid third-party downloads entirely.

Conclusion

Softonic makes it easy to find free apps, games, and APKs. However, it’s not the safest place to download from. Repackaged installers, bundled software, and misleading ads can turn a quick download into a serious security risk if you're not careful.

Fortunately, with the right precautions, you can minimize the risk that comes with using Softonic. And if you’d rather avoid the hassle altogether, there are safer alternatives that offer direct, ad-free downloads from verified sources.

References

1. https://hello.softonic.com/advertise-with-us/
2. https://sprinto.com/blog/malware-trends/