Malware infecting your computer is a specter that threatens the device in general, including your private files and photos, and you are afraid of eavesdropping on them or even losing them. So let's learn together the main symptoms that appear on your device if it is infected with one of this malware:
1. The computer is running slow and takes longer to start
A slow computer is usually the first sign of an infected computer, be concerned if it is suddenly running very slow and even simple tasks take a long time to execute malware, especially viruses that are known to slow down your system; you should always consider the possibility of infection if your computer Your running slow.
2 . Unexplained freezes or malfunctions
If your computer shuts down for no apparent reason, then shuts down, and then restarts entirely, it's probably infected with malware. You will usually see the blue screen, which tells you an unexpected shutdown, and the blue screen of death shown below was triggered by malware. This generally means critical system files, such as BIOS files, have been corrupted.
3. Suspicious pop-up ads or security warnings
Pop-up ads are noticeably annoying. They are so widely hated that many browsers now include pop-up blockers, so you don't have to deal with them. So, if you suddenly receive many pop-ups, there is a high chance that malware has tampered with your system. You also get sudden and scary warnings announcing that you have malware on your system, presenting you with an antivirus and prompting you to take immediate action.
These warnings are actually a way for hackers to introduce malware into your system or steal your personal information, and if you see an ad urging you to buy some type of antivirus you've never heard of, don't accept the offer. Likely a way for hackers to take your money or personal information while not offering you any software in return, this deceptive move is similar to a fraudulent email scam, another common way hackers trick you into accepting malware into your system.
4. Ransom demands
For example, a hacker may use ransomware to get into your system, encrypt all your files and prevent you from accessing them unless you pay a ransom, or you may receive fake warnings in which hackers pretend to be law enforcement and claim that your computer has been used for some activity illegal. Then, they ask you to pay a fine and expect your system to be infected with ransomware.
5. Message everything looks normal
This is the most terrifying possibility because it means that your computer might be infected, but there is no indication of this possibility; spyware hides in your device silently and does not cause any disturbances but allows the hacker to monitor your online activity. In addition to logging passwords, malware can be challenging to spot, and the best cybersecurity companies and software apps are very good at spotting bugs. But malware itself is evolving to circumvent detection methods, and if you see any of the above signs, you are likely infected with malware.
What do you do when you have malware?
1. Install antivirus software
Antivirus programs like (Kaspersky, Norton, or McAfee) are now basically unable to remove or even detect newer and more sophisticated forms of malware. The new generation of malware has excellent features like polymorphic code, which allows it to convert while you do it, Re there. Antivirus software remains necessary, but not a good form of protection against malware, and it is still helpful in detecting and removing many types of malware, so keep going.
2. Install software updates
Hackers are busy discovering vulnerabilities and writing malware to exploit them, and cybersecurity professionals are working to patch vulnerabilities that hackers find. Install the latest updates regularly to protect your software from the newest malware. This seemingly simple and necessary precaution, According to a 2015 study conducted by Google, cybersecurity professionals say it is the most critical aspect of computer security online.
3. Use strong encryption and passwords
Passwords are essential information hackers are looking to steal to gain access to your system, and if you have a simple password, using a password dictionary can crack it without much effort. That's why it's so important to come up with passwords, passwords are long and unique for each of your devices or accounts, and you should encrypt as much of your computer activity, especially files, and connections, as possible to provide an extra layer of security.
4. Use a VPN
A VPN or Virtual Private Network is an excellent way to protect yourself on the Internet. A VPN allows your computer to send and receive messages as if on a private network, and all connections and data packets are encrypted. So hackers who might sniff your network traffic won't be able to get direct access to it, and if hackers can't get into your network, they can't inject malware on devices.