How can PHP developers ensure the security and reliability of file reading operations when accessing files from remote domains?

When accessing files from remote domains, PHP developers can ensure security and reliability by using functions like `file_get_contents` with appropriate error handling and validation checks. It is important to verify the file's existence, check its permissions, and sanitize the input to prevent injection attacks. Additionally, using secure protocols like HTTPS and validating the file's content can help mitigate potential risks.

$remote_file = 'https://example.com/file.txt';

// Verify file existence
if (filter_var($remote_file, FILTER_VALIDATE_URL) && @fopen($remote_file, 'r')) {
    // Read file contents
    $file_contents = file_get_contents($remote_file);

    // Validate file content
    if ($file_contents !== false) {
        // Process file contents
        echo $file_contents;
    } else {
        echo 'Error reading file contents';
    }
} else {
    echo 'Error accessing remote file';
}