Just because your antivirus program hasn’t reported anything strange doesn’t mean your system is safe. Here are 10 clues that could indicate an infection, and advice on how to tackle each problem.
PC is running slowly
If your PC is no longer as speedy as it once was, it could be a sign that you’re running out of hard drive space, but it could also be down to a malware infection. Run a good ‘second opinion’ scanner such as Reason Core Security (www.reasoncoresecurity.com).
Loss of hard-drive space
Some malware can eat into your disk space. Check to see where your storage has gone using TreeSize Free (www.jam-software.com).
Pop-up windows
Random windows popping up may indicate that your PC is infected. Make sure you don’t click any of these windows, and scan your system using Malwarebytes Anti-Malware (www.malwarebytes.org).
Antivirus software is disabled
A popular trick by malware is to disable your security software (and prevent updates) so it can run unhindered. If you can’t restart a security scanner, try a different free program to check for malware.
Browser changes
Malware can change your browser settings, including altering your default search engine and homepage. Use a program such as AdwCleaner (bit.ly/adwcleaner388) to fix this.
Strange program activity
If programs open or close unexpectedly, or behave oddly, this could be a sign of malware. Run a thorough anti-malware scan.
Excessive hard drive activity
If you’re not using your hard drive, but it seems to be working in overdrive all the time, you should check to see what’s keeping it so busy. Right-click the taskbar, select Task Manager and see what’s using the most resources. This activity could also be caused by impending hard-drive failure.
Busier than normal network load
If downloads or uploads seem slower than normal, even though you aren’t downloading anything (such as a large Windows update), then it’s worth checking to see if there is any unusual network activity going on. GlassWire (glasswire.com) can help.
Crashes
Crashes are usually caused by buggy or clashing software, but it could also be the result of a malware infection. Run a thorough scan to check.
Your friends receive odd messages from you
Change your passwords immediately, and set up and use two-factor authentication (2fa) where possible on your various services. This uses a password and a code from your mobile phone. To set this up in Google, visit bit.ly/2step388.