14 Aug 2025
“EX4 Decompilation Scams: How to Spot and Avoid Malware”
EX4 Decompilation Scams: How to Spot and Avoid Malware
Meta Description:
Learn how to identify EX4 decompilation scams, avoid malware-infected tools, and protect your MetaTrader 4 code from hackers and data theft.
Introduction
In the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) community, EX4 decompilation — converting compiled trading files back into MQ4 source code — is a hot topic. While it’s legal only in certain cases (such as recovering your own code), many traders search for “free EX4 decompiler” tools online.
Here’s the problem: Most of these are scams. They either deliver nothing useful or infect your computer with malware. Some scammers even steal your EX4 file and resell your code.
In this post, you’ll learn how to spot EX4 decompilation scams, the malware risks involved, and how to protect yourself.
Why EX4 Decompilation Attracts Scammers
• High demand: Many traders lose their MQ4 source files and desperately seek a quick solution.
• Limited availability: Real, working decompilers for Build 600+ are rare, so scammers can prey on hope.
• Legal grey area: The legality of decompilation makes victims less likely to report scams.
Common EX4 Decompilation Scams
1. Fake Download Pages
Scammers create websites claiming to offer a working “EX4 to MQ4 decompiler” for free. In reality:
• The file is full of viruses or spyware.
• The download is a survey scam that never delivers.
2. “Send Us Your EX4” Scams
These are people or websites claiming:
“Send us your EX4 file, and we’ll send you the MQ4 for $50.”
What happens instead:
• They take your EX4 file, decompile it (if possible), and keep or resell it.
• You may never get your code back.
3. YouTube Tool Tutorials
Some scammers post fake YouTube videos showing a “working decompiler” with step-by-step instructions.
• Links in the description lead to malware.
• Comments are full of fake testimonials from other scam accounts.
4. Forum Impersonators
Scammers pretend to be respected members on trading forums. They ask you to pay upfront for decompilation services, then disappear.
Signs an EX4 Decompilation Offer is a Scam
• Too Good to Be True: Claims they can perfectly recover any EX4, including Build 600+ versions, in minutes.
• No Proof of Ownership Check: Legitimate services will ask you to prove you own the file.
• Anonymous Contact Info: No business name, location, or verifiable profile.
• Payment Only via Crypto: Common with untraceable scam payments.
• Unverified Reviews: Only suspiciously positive reviews from new accounts.
Malware Risks from Fake Decompilers
• Trojans: Give hackers remote access to your computer.
• Keyloggers: Steal MT4 passwords, bank logins, and cryptocurrency wallets.
• Ransomware: Lock your files until you pay a ransom.
• Spyware: Track your trades and steal your strategies.
How to Avoid EX4 Decompilation Scams
1. Verify the Source
• Use well-known platforms like MQL5.com Freelance or Upwork.
• Avoid downloading from random sites or torrent links.
2. Ask for Proof
• Request a demo decompilation on a small test file you own.
• See if they explain the limitations with Build 600+ encryption.
3. Use Anti-Malware Tools
• Scan all downloads with Windows Defender, Malwarebytes, or similar.
• Run suspicious programs in a virtual machine (VM) to isolate risks.
4. Keep Your Own Backups
• Store both EX4 and MQ4 files in multiple secure locations.
• Regularly back up to cloud storage or an external hard drive.
5. Choose Legal Alternatives
• Contact the original developer.
• Rebuild the code from scratch.
• Hire a licensed MQL4 programmer.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
• Disconnect from the Internet immediately if you suspect malware.
• Run a full antivirus scan and remove any detected threats.
• Change your passwords for MT4, email, and bank accounts.
• Report the scam to the trading platform or hosting service.
