How and Where to Download The Sims 4 Mods & CC Without Risks
Mods and Custom Content (CC) can drastically transform your gameplay experience in The Sims 4, but it’s crucial to know where it’s safe to download them. In this article, we’ll review trusted sources and explain why you should avoid suspicious websites.
Why You Shouldn't Download Mods from Untrusted Websites
The main rule: always download mods and CC only from verified and official sources.
Here’s why:
- Risk of getting a virus or malware. Torrent collections and packs from “shady” websites are often infected.
- Repackaged content. Mods from suspicious sites may not only be infected, but can also be broken or outdated, which can cause your game to lag or crash.
- Violation of creators’ rights. Reuploaders pass off someone else’s work as their own, and that’s just not ethical.
Top Safe Sources for Downloading Mods and CC
1. Official Creators’ Pages (Patreon, Tumblr, Personal Blogs)
The safest way to go.
Benefits: Guaranteed original files, virus-free, and always up-to-date versions.
Patreon
— The main platform for many creators
— Huge amount of free content
— Paid subscription usually only gives early access (1-4 weeks)
— Super simple download process: just one click on the file
Tumblr
— A blogging platform where many creators showcase their portfolios
— User-friendly catalogs with mod previews and descriptions
— Direct links always lead to official file storage (Patreon, Simfileshare, Dropbox, etc.)
— Many creators also run themed blogs with curated selections
Personal websites
Some major creators have their own websites: look for links in their social media profiles.
You can also find links to creators' personal pages on Scarlet’s Mod List Checker website (you can also check mod status there; more on this in our article).
2. SimFileShare (SFS)
— A free file hosting service that’s really popular among simmers
— Simple and straightforward download interface
— Safe to use
3. Dropbox/Google Drive
A lot of creators upload their files there. The main thing is to make sure the link is provided directly by the creator.
4. Pinterest for searching
— A great tool for finding CC content
— Usually redirects you to official creators’ pages (but still, make sure you’re not clicking through to sketchy sites)
5. YouTube channels with mod reviews
Many YouTube bloggers make mod review videos with direct links to official sources:
— All mods shown have already been tested
— The links are to verified sources
— It’s a super convenient way to discover quality content
6. The Sims Resource
— A legal and well-known website; some creators release their works exclusively there
— Sometimes there are outdated versions of content, so be on the lookout for that
Which Sites Should You NOT Download From?
Sites with re-uploaded content
— Files might be modified
— Tons of ads and sketchy links
— Mods are not always up-to-date
— Creators are often against their work being posted on those sites
Torrents, “best mods in one big pack” compilations
Almost always repacked (someone’s messed with the original files – which is risky).
Signs of dangerous websites:
- AdFly links – a link shortener service with embedded ads
- Multiple "Download" buttons – it’s unclear which one is real
- Suspicious ads – pop-ups, prompts to download something extra
- You’re asked to install ZIP archivers, additional software, browser extensions
- You must register just to get free content
- The page looks outdated, lots of broken links, tons of re-uploads and catalogs without author credits
Basic Safety Rules:
1. Always download from the original source
Look for the creators’ official pages.
2. Don’t download archives with “mod packs”
You risk getting outdated or broken mods, and there’s a chance of picking up viruses.
3. Read descriptions and comments
Check for compatibility with your current game version and look for other users’ reviews.
4. Use antivirus software
Scan every file you download. Be especially careful with .exe files.
5. Check the file format
— CC content: .package files
— Mods: .package or .ts4script files
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Stay away from anything that looks suspicious.
6. Stay updated on community news
It’s super important to keep up with the latest news and discussions in the Sims community: for example, in popular Discord servers, forums, and Twitter.
Why This Matters:
- From time to time, accounts of popular creators get hacked. If someone gains access to a creator’s page, they can swap out the files for malicious ones: which means you could pick up a virus even from what looks like an official source.
- The community quickly spreads info about incidents like this, giving warnings about dangerous links and infected downloads.
- By staying active in the community, you’ll hear about major updates, patches, and any vulnerabilities discovered in certain mods.
Downloading mods for The Sims 4 can be perfectly safe if you stick to some simple rules. The main thing is to use only trusted sources and official creator pages. Take a bit of time to learn safe practices and you’ll get to enjoy the huge variety of custom content without putting your computer or saves at risk.
