What is a computer virus? Basically, it’s a program that you did not install onto your machine. It can spread itself from one computer to another, and it performs malicious actions. The first computer virus was introduced in 1971, and over time, they have gotten stronger and more damaging.
One of the most malicious viruses is called ransomware. In this case, a cybercriminal uses software that blocks your access to your data. Generally, in order to get your computer back to normal, you will have to pay a ransom fee, which is usually a few hundred to several thousand dollars. These attacks are on the rise, with a 12 percent increase in 2019 compared to the same period in 2018. A new attack is successful about every 14 seconds, and it has allowed the hackers to bring in millions of dollars in profits.
So, what are the signs that your computer might have a virus? There are actually several signs, some more obvious than others. Here are some things to watch out for:
You are automatically re-directed to a browser…
Imagine for a moment that you type Google.com into the address bar of your browser, but you suddenly find yourself on a website that is selling fitness equipment. This is known as ‘redirecting,’ and it is a sure sign that your computer has a virus. Generally, the hackers try to push victims towards a specific site in order to steal their information.
Your computer has slowed down significantly…
You also might notice that your computer is running much slower than it used to. If this is the case, a virus could be the reason. When your computer is running a lot of programs, it naturally becomes slower. A virus takes a lot of power from the computer, and they generally run in the background. So, the only way you would notice is if you actively search for it.
You get more pop-ups than usual…
Another sign that your computer might have a virus is that you start getting more pop-ups than you used to get. You also might see more ads on websites.
Your computer crashes over and over…
You might have an infected computer if you notice that it begins to crash or randomly restart. Programs might disappear or you also might see that your hard drive is very full when it used to be rather empty.
You cannot access your files…
If you have found that you cannot access your files, it could be a clear indication that you have a computer virus. You might, for instance, notice that you no longer have permission to access a file or an app that you used to have access to.
Your computer is sending messages – and they’re coming from “you”…
Has someone contacted you to say they got a random email from you? If so, this is a big sign that your computer is infected with viruses. These viruses also might send messages from your social media accounts. Though your accounts might have been accessed directly, it’s also possible that there is a keylogger installed on your computer, too. If this is the case, the hacker probably has your passwords.
You don’t have any antivirus software…
If you don’t have any antivirus software installed on your device, even if it’s a Mac or Android phone, it’s highly likely that you have a virus. You really need to have up-to-date antivirus software installed, and you should also have a firewall. Additionally, it’s important that you monitor your URL bar when using your browser. Try to use sites that start with https:// when you can and look for a green lock in the address bar. This shows that the website is safe. If you don’t see that, it could lead to you picking up malware or a virus.
You use more data…
When you see a big increase in data, it is also a sign that you might have a virus. Your computer could have been connected to a botnet, which is a large network of computers that actually attack other computers without the owner realizing. One sign that your computer is part of these networks is if you see a big increase in data use. Check out your internet plan each month, and if you notice an unexplained boost, scan your system.
You have installed apps or software that is unauthorized…
There are a ton of harmful apps and other programs out there, and when you download them, they can contain viruses. For instance, you should be downloading from the Google Play Store or App Store on Apple devices. Otherwise, you could be putting your device at risk.
Your computer is making strange sounds…
Has your computer been making strange sounds? Or does it seem like it’s constantly working, even if you aren’t using it? These are both signs that a virus is on your machine. It’s possible that a hacker could have access to your computer and using it even if you don’t realize it. Now it’s true that sometimes there are things like regular scheduled updates, for instance, but it’s worth it to investigate if you have noticed these noises.
You have been on a public Wi-Fi connection…
When you sign onto a public Wi-Fi network, you are more prone to a malicious attack than if you are signed into your home Wi-Fi network. If you do this often, you should be running a malware scan at least once a week. Also, download and install a VPN (virtual private network) software to encrypt your data on free Wi-Fi and make sure that you are keep your operating system and antivirus program up to date when updates are released.
You clicked on a phishing email…
Finally, you might have a virus if you have recently clicked on a phishing email. The most common way for hackers to spread viruses is via phishing emails. These emails are designed to trick people into clicking on a link or opening an attachment that contains a virus. The easiest way to avoid getting a virus is to make sure that you are not downloading attachments or clicking links in an email…even if it looks legitimate. For instance, these hackers might set up some type of sense of authority, such as pretending to be your company’s CEO. Another trick is to set up a sense of urgency, where they might say you have to click on the link before a certain time frame. They also can create emails that indicate an item you really want is close to selling out. However, all of these are fake and an attempt to get access to your data and information.
