How can PHP developers ensure that file downloads from remote sources are handled securely and efficiently in their code?

To ensure that file downloads from remote sources are handled securely and efficiently in PHP code, developers should use functions like `file_get_contents()` with proper error handling and validation. Additionally, they should consider using secure protocols like HTTPS and verifying the file's integrity before allowing the download to proceed.

$remoteFile = 'https://example.com/file.zip';

if (filter_var($remoteFile, FILTER_VALIDATE_URL)) {
    $fileContents = file_get_contents($remoteFile);
    
    if ($fileContents !== false) {
        // Save the file or process it further
    } else {
        echo 'Error downloading file.';
    }
} else {
    echo 'Invalid URL provided.';
}