My Computer Is Acting Weird. How To Know If You Have Malware
Summary: This 3-minute article discusses the cyber security required to recognize and defend against a malware attack. Also, learn how to check for malware. Finally, contact GEEK-AID Computer and Network Support at https://www.geekaid.com/ to explore the best comprehensive IT support services for your computer system.
Cybercrime is at an all-time high. The recently expanded remote access work environment has dramatically increased hackers’ target landscape. In addition, inconsistent or insufficient cyber security has spawned many more data threats and compromised networked devices of all kinds. The “mothership” of cyberattacks is called malware.
What Is Malware?
Malware is an umbrella term that includes viruses, ransomware, spyware and many other forms of malicious software that can be installed on your devices without your knowledge. Depending on the attack strategy, cybercriminals can breach your private data, bombard you with unwanted advertisements and spam or demand ransoms while holding your data hostage. There are a variety of malware signs to look for in the functionality of your connected devices:
- Crashes, Slow-Downs and Errors – If your computer devices suddenly crash, generate error messages or slow down, you probably have fallen victim to a malware attack.
- Relentless Pop-Up Ads – If you haven’t had pop-ups recently and suddenly ads are turning up in places where they shouldn’t be, then it is likely that you’ve been hacked.
- Device Doesn’t Shut Down or Restart – Although other issues can cause these symptoms, this unusual behavior could be a sign of the presence of malware.
- Appearance of New Toolbars and Icons – If unexpected software icons or toolbars appear on your desktop or in your browser, malware is likely the culprit.
- Battery Problems – If your device battery isn’t very old but suddenly drains quickly or overheats, malware could be the cause.
- Unrequested Changes to Default Search Engines – If suddenly your Google Chrome browser homepage is replaced by a search engine you’ve never heard of, or if new tabs appear seemingly out of nowhere, you should check for malware.
- Your Device Sends Emails – If emails you didn’t write are suddenly being sent from your account without your knowledge, it is a definite sign that you’ve been cyberattacked.
- Inability to Add or Remove Software – If you repeatedly cannot add or remove software from your device, it is likely a cyberthief has started taking control of your system.
Identity theft is one of the most pernicious cyberattacks. The hacker’s goal is to steal your unique identifying data, such as your bank account and social security numbers. In addition, cyber thieves can steal your credentials (usernames and passwords) to gain access to other platforms and ultimately glean enough of your personal data to steal your identity.
How Does Malware Infect Devices?
“Think before you click!” are words to live by. Hackers count on the impulsivity of users to lure them into clicking on downloads, attachments, ads and links designed to launch cyberattacks. Emails with headings such as “You’ve Won!” or “Your Account Is Locked” are intended to create a sense of excitement or urgency for users and are, therefore, more likely to prompt impulsive clicks. If someone has physical access to your device, they can use a removable storage drive or memory stick to install malware on it.
Email is one of the most common hacking vehicles for launching cyberattacks. These are called phishing attacks. The FTC (https://www.ftc.gov/