Is Your Computer Hacked? 10 Warning Signs
Your computer should feel like a safe space where you handle work personal finances, and connect with loved ones. But if it starts behaving oddly, you may wonder if someone else is accessing your private data. Here are some telltale signs that your computer may have been hacked—and steps to help you regain control and protect your information.
1. Frequent Antivirus Warnings
When your antivirus software repeatedly detects and removes threats, but new alerts keep popping up, it's likely more than routine. Persistent warnings often mean malware keeps reappearing despite your antivirus' best efforts. This can happen when hackers use sophisticated methods to keep malware embedded in your system. Consider running a second scan with tools like Norton Power Eraser to check for hidden threats thoroughly.
2. Unexpected Webcam Activity
A webcam light that flickers on without your prompting is a big red flag. Malware known as a "remote access Trojan" (RAT) can activate your camera, enabling someone to spy on you without your knowledge. Always check which apps use your webcam, but remember that advanced malware may hide its tracks — covering your webcam when not in use is a simple, but effective, precaution.
3. Sluggish Performance
If your computer suddenly slows to a crawl, it could be a sign of crypto-mining malware, which consumes processing power to mine cryptocurrency for someone else. Check your Task Manager to see what's hogging your resources. If you find unfamiliar applications or programs using excessive memory, malware could be to blame.
4. Freezes and Crashes
Are you seeing the dreaded "Blue Screen of Death" more often, or are apps that used to work seamlessly now crashing? Malware that burrows deep into your system can destabilize your operating system, causing frequent crashes and freezes. While hardware issues can also lead to crashes, recurring problems should raise suspicion of a potential hack.
5. Unfamiliar Apps or Pop-Ups
If new programs suddenly appear on your computer, or you start seeing suspicious pop-ups, it could be malware or spyware. Pop-ups may even take the form of a quick flash of a command prompt that disappears before you can understand it. Be wary of anything that feels out of the ordinary.
6. Changes to Browser Settings
Has your browser's homepage mysteriously changed, or is it now loaded with unfamiliar extensions? Adware and spyware often hijack browsers to redirect you to specific sites or show unwanted ads. Resetting your browser is an essential first step, but a full malware scan can help ensure the problem doesn't reappear.
7. Strange Emails Sent From Your Account
If friends or colleagues report receiving unusual emails from you, or if you find sent messages you don't remember composing, it's possible a hacker has accessed your email. Hackers often use compromised accounts to spread spam or malicious links to others. Changing your passwords and enabling two-factor authentication can help protect your account.
8. Random Password Changes
If you're locked out of accounts due to unexpected password resets, it could be a hacker trying to take control of your accounts. Hackers often try common passwords across multiple sites if they gain access to one, so avoid reusing passwords and consider a password manager for secure storage.
9. Files or Programs Altered or Missing
Are documents suddenly missing, or are programs behaving in unfamiliar ways? Malware can manipulate files or hide them altogether. To recover control, run a deep malware scan, restore from a secure backup, and consider resetting your device to factory settings if suspicious activity persists.
10. Suspicious Network Activity
Unusual activity on your home network, such as unexplained data spikes or network slowdowns, may indicate unauthorized access. Malware often uses your internet connection to communicate with hackers. Regularly checking your network's activity and device list can help you catch suspicious connections.
Spotting these warning signs early can make all the difference in stopping a cyberattack. Trust your instincts and regularly check for these issues. Keeping your software updated and running regular scans with trusted antivirus programs are simple steps that go a long way in maintaining your computer's security.
References: 7 warning signs your computer has been hacked — and what to do | Signs that your computer has been hacked
