Use a tool like 7-Zip or WinRAR to "Open Archive" rather than "Extract." This allows you to see the file names and extensions inside (e.g., .txt , .jpg , .exe ) without running any code.
Look at the URL where the file was hosted. For example, if it came from ://example.com , the website's purpose will tell you what is inside. 57293.rar
Frequently, random-numbered .rar or .zip files sent via email or found on shady download sites are used to mask malicious executables. Safe Handling of Unknown .RAR Files Use a tool like 7-Zip or WinRAR to
Be wary of files inside named things like document.pdf.exe . This is a common trick to hide an application as a document. if it came from ://example.com