In recent months, there have been increasing reports of security issues with 7-Zip, one of the most popular open-source file archivers. Currently, an exploit is being discussed that could potentially allow attackers to execute third-party applications or malicious code simply by extracting an archive file—even if the archive itself is not infected.

The Problem with 7-Zip

7-Zip is one of the most popular alternatives to WinZip and WinRAR, but recent developments have cast doubt on its security. An exploit, demonstrated by a programmer from the open-source and hacking community, has shown that it is possible to execute third-party applications and malicious code on a system through 7-Zip’s extraction process. Although 7-Zip’s developer, Igor Pavlov, has dismissed the exploit as fake and a result of AI hallucination, many users have grown increasingly skeptical. As a result, many are looking for alternatives that offer more transparency in development and an independent codebase.

Another point of criticism concerns the Russian origins of 7-Zip’s developer. Given the ongoing Ukraine war and the increasing number of cyberattacks linked to Russian actors, trust in the software has declined within the community. This has led many users to seek alternatives that are independently developed and have a better security reputation.

PeaZip – The Best Open-Source Alternative?

For those looking for a secure alternative to 7-Zip, PeaZip is a viable option. PeaZip offers similar features, is also open-source and free, and has an independent codebase. It was developed by Italian software engineer Giorgio Tani and is now actively maintained by an international community on GitHub. This ensures transparent development, regular updates, and continuous improvements in security and functionality.

Why PeaZip?
  • Open Source: The source code is publicly available and reviewed by the community.
  • Extensive Format Support: Supports over 200 archive formats, including ZIP, TAR, RAR, 7-Zip, and many more.
  • Sleek, Minimalist Design: PeaZip is free from unnecessary bloat, ads, or unwanted software.
  • Strong Encryption: AES-256 encryption ensures archives are securely protected.
  • Cross-Platform: Available for Windows and Linux, including portable versions.
Conclusion: Time to Switch?

If you're concerned about the security of your archive software or simply looking for a more modern, transparent alternative to 7-Zip, PeaZip is a strong candidate. With an active community, regular updates, and a clear focus on privacy and user-friendliness, PeaZip stands out as the best open-source archiving software alternative available today.

For more information and the official publisher’s download link, visit our software page: PeaZip on ratnoize.com