file-identifier 1.0.0

CLI tool to detect real file types using magic numbers, with JSON output, directory scanning, and extension mismatch detection

File Identifier

A command-line tool to detect the real file type using magic numbers (file signatures), instead of relying on file extensions.

Works even when extensions are incorrect or intentionally misleading (e.g., .pdf.exe).

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Installation

pip install file-identifier

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Usage

file-identifier <file_or_directory> [options]

Examples

file-identifier file.pdf
file-identifier file.pdf --json
file-identifier suspicious.pdf.exe
file-identifier ./folder
file-identifier file.zip --verbose

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Features

• Detects file types using binary signatures (magic numbers)
• Works with incorrect or spoofed extensions
• JSON output for automation
• Directory scanning support
• Verbose mode for detailed inspection
• Fast and lightweight

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Output

• File type
• Likely extension
• File size
• Confidence level
• Hex header

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How it works

The tool reads the initial bytes of a file and compares them with known magic signatures to determine its actual type.

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License

MIT