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My computer may be infected
Your computer is behaving unusually — it's slow, showing pop-ups, opening programs on its own, or your antivirus has flagged something. This may indicate malware, but some of these symptoms also have simple, non-malicious causes.
Do this now
- Disconnect from the internet if you suspect active malware, to limit further data being sent out.
- Run a full scan with your device's built-in or installed security software.
- If financial or password-manager apps are installed, treat those passwords as potentially exposed.
Then do this
- Update your operating system and all applications once the scan is clear.
- Change passwords for sensitive accounts from a different, trusted device.
- Consider a clean reinstall of the operating system if problems persist after removal.
Check these things
- Are there unfamiliar programs in your list of installed applications?
- Is your antivirus/security software up to date and actually running?
- Did the symptoms start after installing something from an untrusted source?
Don't do this
- Don't download a random 'fix-it' tool from a pop-up or search ad.
- Don't enter banking passwords on the infected device until it's confirmed clean.
When should I get help?
- Consult an IT professional if you're not confident removing the infection yourself.
- Contact your bank if financial details may have been exposed.