All of us are concerned about the security of our data in the wake of recent cybersecurity threats. It’s crucial to keep an eye out for any changes made to your computer to protect your passwords or other sensitive information from being stolen. Unfortunately, your printer isn’t working as it should, and you have no idea what the problem is. Unusual activities from your webcam. There are some warning indicators that your computer has been hacked, and you should be aware of them. That’s what this article is about.
#1. Antivirus software has been disabled
Even if you wish to disable antivirus software, it’s not that easy. Because of this, it’s nearly hard to mistakenly turn it off by mistake. A good hacker would disable your antivirus software first, so you won’t be able to spot it. When you find that your antivirus has been turned off, switch it back on and contact a specialist.
#2. Unfortunately, your passwords don’t seem to be working correctly
It’s possible that your computer has been hacked if some of your accounts are inaccessible, and you’re certain you didn’t change your passwords and forget about it afterwards. Thanks to two-factor authentication, most services allow you to recover your passwords by having a code delivered to your mobile phone. As soon as you’ve done this, reset the passwords on all your accounts, even those that appear to be safe. Do not open any messages from you or click on any links received from your accounts, and make sure that all of your contacts know about this.
#3. Your followers have increased
If you see a lot of random people on your social media pages, it’s a sure sign that your computer, or at least your account, has been compromised. What do you do? Spam messages might be found in the conversations you have with your close friends.
#4. There are new icons on your dashboard
Launching your browser and seeing new icons on your dashboard could be a clue that your computer virus has invaded your computer system. If you don’t want to make the hackers’ job simpler, don’t run the unrecognised software. Consider deleting them from your PC.
#5. The cursor moves by itself
If you find that your cursor is moving and highlighting things without your permission, your computer has been infected. What you should do is turn off the internet connection immediately. To do this, disconnect the ethernet cable or turn off your wireless network until a technician arrives and solves the issue for you.
#6. Your printer isn’t working correctly
Not only do cyberattacks affect your computer, but also your peripheral devices. For example, if your printer refuses to print something out, it could be a warning sign that something is wrong. There’s also the possibility that you’ve run out of paper. The same is true for all other devices that are connected to your PC.
#6. Redirections to other websites occur
If your browser keeps diverting you to different pages, you should be on the lookout. Do you recall browsing some suspicious-looking websites on the internet? It’s possible that your machine has been compromised.
If you type something into the search engine and instead of getting Google pages, you get a page you don’t recognise, it is indeed time to contact a professional. It’s the same when you see too many pop-up windows on your screen.
#7. You noticed someone has erased your files
This is a strong indication of a cyberattack. If you notice that a particular folder is empty, don’t freak out just yet. This isn’t an important issue as there are tools that can help to restore erased files. However, the safety of your system is of utmost concern.
#8. Your webcam is acting strangely
Check the webcam icon on your computer’s screen. Ensure that no applications that require a webcam are active, such as Skype or FaceTime. Try rebooting the system and checking again. There’s a problem if the icon eventually returns. Turn off your computer and seek a professional to help you with this.
#9. Your computer’s speed is slow
A hacked computer takes a long time to execute even the simplest tasks. First, try restarting your computer and re-evaluating its performance. Possibly, you just need a new piece of hardware. Try launching the task manager and looking for the processes that are consuming your RAM if nothing changes. If you can, shut down all of your computer’s processes and check how well it functions afterwards. Any issues after that, you already know what to disconnect and who to call.
CONCLUSION
Now let us summarise and restate what you should be doing now.
- Notify your contacts and everyone else you’ve contacted that your computer has been hacked.
- Tell them not to open your messages or click on any links you send them.
- Be sure to alert your bank to a probable data breach.
- Delete all apps you don’t recognise, as well as those you can’t launch.
- Install a reputable anti-virus programme, and scan your computer for viruses.
- Passwords should be changed on all of your accounts.
