ipfs.io operates primarily as a cloud infrastructure provider, focusing on decentralized storage gateway. ipfs.io is a public gateway that acts as a bridge between the traditional HTTP protocol and the decentralized IPFS network. It allows users to access, retrieve, and view content stored on the IPFS network using standard web browsers without requiring a local IPFS node. It is operated by IPFS Foundation, a subsidiary of Protocol Labs.
ipfs.io
Established Site
ipfs.io is an established platform operated by IPFS Foundation. Top 100,000 global website, 11 years old. Standard web safety practices apply.
Security Considerations
While ipfs.io is an established platform, these capabilities require extra vigilance.
Cryptocurrency Platform
ipfs.io handles cryptocurrency transactions. Crypto transfers cannot be reversed once sent, making these platforms prime targets for phishing. Always verify you're on the exact official URL before entering credentials or approving transactions.
File Hosting
ipfs.io allows users to upload and share files. Any file you download was uploaded by another user—not the platform operator. Scan downloads with antivirus software and only download from sources you trust.
Document Hosting
ipfs.io hosts documents and pages shared via links. Because the domain is trusted, links pass through email spam filters easily. Attackers exploit this to host fake invoices, login pages, or malware download prompts.
User-Generated Content
ipfs.io hosts content created by its users, not the platform operator. Individual posts, profiles, or pages may contain scams, misinformation, or phishing attempts that the platform hasn't yet detected or removed.
Custom Subdomains
ipfs.io allows users to create custom addresses like "anything.ipfs.io". An address like "paypal-secure.ipfs.io" may look official but is actually controlled by whoever registered that subdomain—not IPFS Foundation.
Remember: The platform itself is established, but even established platforms can be abused.
Investigate a Specific URL
Run a live threat scan to detect phishing, malware, and suspicious content on any URL from this domain.
Opens in a new tab for live analysis
URLert analyzed recent scan activity for ipfs.io and found 1 result.
| Status | Target URL | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Malicious | https://ipfs.io/ipfs/bafkreiekklmiavvb6acdbbr45wf2ytkegj... | 20h ago |
Integrate Domain Intelligence
Access this classification data programmatically via our API.
{
"domain": "ipfs.io",
"confidence": "high",
"category": {
"purpose": "cloud_infrastructure",
"specialization": "Decentralized Storage Gateway"
},
"identity": {
"headline": "Public HTTP gateway for the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS)",
"summary": "ipfs.io is a public gateway that acts as a bridge between the traditional HTTP protocol and the decentralized IPFS network. It allows users to access, retrieve, and view content stored on the IPFS network using standard web browsers without requiring a local IPFS node.",
"operator": "IPFS Foundation",
"parent_entity": "Protocol Labs",
"topics": [
"decentralized web",
"IPFS",
"distributed storage",
"web3",
"p2p networking"
]
},
"functions": {
"is_ugc_platform": true,
"is_file_host": true,
"is_url_shortener": false,
"is_public_idp": false,
"is_crypto_platform": true,
"allows_user_subdomains": true,
"is_form_builder": false,
"is_document_host": true
},
"facts": {
"registered_date": "2014-05-16T18:34:42Z",
"rank": 13987,
"hosting_provider": "PROTOCOL"
}
}