The Malware Files is a Medium publication dedicated to malware-focused content. From history and technical breakdowns, to investigations and analysis. Occasionally, we may also explore how malware is built, strictly from an educational and defensive standpoint.

To keep things clear and consistent, please read the guidelines below before submitting.

Ethical stance first

We actively encourage white-hat and grey-hat content. Educational analysis, defensive insight, historical case studies, and research-driven work are all welcome.

🚫 Black-hat content is not allowed.

Anything that promotes active harm, criminal misuse, or real-world exploitation without a clear defensive or academic purpose will be outright rejected.

Drafts are strongly preferred

While we do accept already published stories, we highly encourage submissions as drafts.

From experience, drafts allow for better editorial input, clearer positioning, and ultimately better readership and reach once published under the publication.

Keep it PG

We want The Malware Files to be accessible, including to younger readers who are learning cybersecurity. We’d prefer to avoid unnecessary profanity, glorifying cybercrime or attackers and keep descriptions professional and responsible.

You can be technical without being graphic or edgy.

Defang all domains, URLs, and IP addresses

For the safety of our readers, all domains, URLs, and IP addresses must be defanged before publication. This prevents readers from inadvertently visiting malicious sites or triggering security tools whilst reading.

Replace http:// with hxxp:// , https:// with hxxps:// , and dots with [.] . For example, hxxps://malicious-site[.]com/payload or 192[.]168[.]1[.]100 .

Images and visual content

All articles must include at least one image. Images should be royalty-free or used with explicit permission. Do not use copyrighted images without proper rights or attribution. We recommend using free, reputable sources such as Pexels, Unsplash and Pixabay.

AI-generated images are also allowed. If you use one, clearly mention the source or tool used (e.g. “Image generated using …”). Using appropriate visuals helps improve readability and engagement.

No multi-part articles

We do not accept articles split into parts (Part 1, Part 2, etc.).

We’ve found that longer, in-depth single articles perform better, keep readers engaged, and significantly increase read time (which also helps earnings if you’re part of the Medium Partner Program).

Write one detailed, no-fluff piece that covers the topic properly. If the subject is worth writing about, it’s worth writing well.

Use of AI

We’re not anti-AI, but we are anti-slop.

• Use AI as a tool, not a crutch
• Submissions should clearly show human understanding and intent
• Low-effort, generic, or heavily AI-generated content will be rejected

📚 Sources are mandatory.

All articles must include references, sources, or further reading links.

We recommend at least 3, but more is always welcome. This improves credibility and trust with readers.

Plagiarism policy

Plagiarism is taken very seriously at our publication. Any form of plagiarism will result in a permanent ban. This includes copying text, lightly rewording someone else’s work, or passing off others’ research as your own.

If you reference or build upon someone else’s work, credit it properly and list it clearly in the sources section at the bottom of the article. When in doubt, cite it.

Review before submission

Before submitting, take time to proofread properly. Take a look at your grammar and spelling, technical and factual accuracy, and ensure it aligns with our ethical and educational goals.

The fewer errors present, the less back-and-forth needed, and the faster your article gets published.

How To Submit

Now for the final step. According to Medium’s guidelines, you’ll need to submit your story directly to be featured in our publication. Here’s the short form:

1. Fill the form below, and wait to be approved as a writer (Usually takes <24hrs after submission).
2. Open the story you want to submit.
3. Click the three-dot button at the top right, then select Edit story.
4. While in edit mode, click the three-dot button again in the top-right corner to open the story settings.
5. Select Add to publication from the dropdown menu.
6. Choose The Malware Files and click Save.

Want to write with us?

If you’re interested in becoming a writer with The Malware Files, you can apply using the form below:

For enquires, send us a mail at info@themalwarefiles.com.

See you soon.

— The Malware Files Editorial Team

The Malware Files Official Publication Guidelines was originally published in The Malware Files on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.