Ever since computers have developed, so have the threats. There is no ambiguity that cyber criminals are leaving no stone unturned to find ways to harm your machines for their ill intentions. Also, there has been a significant hike in the cyber-attacks all over the world. One of the major problems that a user faces is being unaware of the attack that has been done on his machines.

It is important to know that malware attacks pose no significant form that can be felt or seen with naked eyes. These attacks are usually hidden in nature and start to decay your computer with a slow pace. However, there are a few symptoms of an attacked machine that you can identify.

 

How to Know if Your Computer is Malware Infected?

Now that it is understood that a malware attack can’t be identified as any other attack. Thus, there are possibilities that your computer may be infected with malware without you knowing it. However, below is the list of symptoms that can help you know if your machine is infected:

1. Pop-ups:

Getting pop ups on your computer is one of the strongest sign that your computer may be infected with a malware. Usually, a malware infected computer would start to get screenful of pop ups that carry even more malware if you click on any of them. If you get pop ups, it is a red flag.

Also Read: Tips To Keep Your Wifi & Router Safe From Malware

2. Unusual messages:

Messages seeking your permission to start a program, informing you about a program seeking permission to access internet or a threat related message usually is a sign of an infected machine.

3. Different homepage and new toolbars:

Although, homepage is set by users for their convenience. However, if you notice a change in your homepage or the appearance of new toolbar all of a sudden, it is the time to call for help.

4. Disabled firewall:

Firewall is the basic security wall that filters threats that may come from the internet. However, if a malware makes it to your computer, turning off firewall is one of the foremost step that they take. It is important that you pay regular visit to control panel and check on your firewall status. 

Must Read: What Does The Future Hold For Anti-Malware?

5. CD/DVD tray auto eject:

There’s nothing more scary than seeing the ejection tray opening and closing without any command. If you witness the DVD tray opening and closing for no reason, you’ve got the company.

6. Auto launch of programs:

Most of the programs are designed to launch when you wish to. However, a malware infection may trigger any random program at any point of time. This way, if you’re experiencing frequent auto launch of programs, you may have a malware on board.

7. Frequent system crash:

System crashing is anyway a sign of poor health of a computer. However, if you experience frequent system crash even after performing basic cleaning and maintenance, it is time to scan your PC for malware and other threats.

Read Also: How Important Is Password Manager To Avoid Malware Attacks?

How to stay safe?

“Precaution is better than cure”. It is important that you’re ready to face and eliminate any potential risk associated with PCs. Looking at the countless malware attacks over the world, and especially in the U.S., your computer must be well protected from all the aspects. You must ensure the quality and security of your machine as well as the router’s. Avoid unhealthy browsing and open networks, especially when you’re making a payment or logging into your social media account. To add a stronger layer of security, consider signing up for a dedicated antimalware program.

Overall, malware attack may take place anytime and without a prior warning. It is important that you keep your computer safe and intact. It is also recommended to get a dedicated anti malware program installed on your PC to avoid any such situation. However, make sure to download such program from their official websites. In case you wish to share some tips and tricks to stay away from malware attacks, do let us know in the comments below.

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