How to Prevent Safari from Opening Downloaded Files

Safari automatically opens downloaded files it considers as Safe. It may include compressed files, PDF, pictures, videos and other type of files downloaded from trusted sources. But what if a virus or malware was hidden in one of these so-called safe files? You might want to turn off this feature (enabled by default) for your own good. 

Method 1 - From Safari's settings

Launch Safari, click on the Safari menu > Preferences. Go to the General tab and clear the Open "safe" files after downloading checkbox. 

Method 2 - Using the terminal

Open a terminal and run the following command: defaults write com.apple.Safari AutoOpenSafeDownloads -boolean NO