The dangers of installing apps from unknown sources - Hexnode

: If you have already downloaded a suspicious file, do not open it. Instead, upload it to a multi-engine scanner like VirusTotal or use the NordVPN File Checker to check for hidden threats.

: Many unofficial installation guides for Autocom 2020.23 explicitly tell users to completely disable antivirus software , which leaves the entire system vulnerable to infection. Legal and Performance Issues

: If you must use this specific version, some community members recommend using a pre-configured VMware virtual machine . This isolates the software from your main operating system, though it does not eliminate all risks.

: Updating the firmware on diagnostic hardware using unofficial software can "brick" the device, rendering it permanently unusable. Safer Alternatives

: Malicious RAR files can be designed to exploit vulnerabilities in older decompression software to execute code as soon as the archive is opened, bypassing standard Windows security alerts.

: Unofficial versions often require complex workarounds, such as changing the system date to a specific point (e.g., December 15, 2021) or blocking all Windows updates to prevent the software from breaking.

For professional or personal use, it is recommended to use official and supported diagnostic solutions: