How to Know If Your Computer Has a Virus
What to Do About It
Note: October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month
Computer viruses can make your devices sick, but with quick action, you can often help them recover. Since the first self-replicating virus, “Brain,” emerged in 1986, computer viruses have been a constant threat, causing anything from minor slowdowns to major data breaches or even bricking devices entirely. Fortunately, there are ways to kick these viruses off your system.
We’ve all become familiar with real viruses since 2020, and computer viruses work similarly to biological ones like the flu or COVID-19. They’re highly contagious, easily spreading across devices and networks. When your computer is infected, it may struggle to perform basic tasks, similar to how we feel when we’re sick.
Much like a biological virus, a computer virus spreads and replicates, wreaking havoc on your system. It can corrupt programs, delete files, and even damage your hard drive, slowing down performance. In some cases, it might crash your entire system. Worse, cybercriminals can use viruses to gain access to your data, putting your sensitive information at risk.
While having a virus on your computer can be scary, there’s no need to panic! Below, we’ve gathered some tips on how to prevent, detect, and eliminate viruses from your computer.
How Does a Computer Get a Virus?
Viruses typically infect your computer through infected files or malicious downloads. Pirated media and free games are common sources, along with phishing attacks that trick you into clicking a malicious link or downloading an infected attachment. Viruses can also spread from scam websites or even infected external drives like USB sticks.
How Do I Know If My Computer Has a Virus?
Look out for these signs that may indicate your computer is infected:
- Noticeably slow performance
- Problems with shutdowns or restarts
- Missing files
- Frequent crashes or error messages
- Unwanted pop-ups or new programs (like browser toolbars) you didn’t install
- Your device’s internal fan working hard when idle
- Emails being sent from your account without your knowledge
- Web browser slowdowns or frequent redirects
- Disabled antivirus programs or firewalls
What Should I Do If My Computer Has a Virus?
If you suspect your computer has a virus, take these steps quickly to eliminate it:
- Run a Full-System Scan
Use antivirus software to run a full-system scan. Set up regular scans to catch potential issues early. Most antivirus programs will guide you through removing any detected threats. - Restore to an Earlier Backup
If you can’t remove the virus, try restoring your computer to a point before the infection started. Afterward, scan your system again to ensure it’s clean. - Delete Temporary Files
Deleting temporary files can help remove lingering infected files. This process varies by operating system, but instructions are easy to find online. - Go Into Safe Mode
If your computer is malfunctioning, try starting it in Safe Mode. This can help you delete infected files without interference from the virus. - Reinstall Your Operating System
As a last resort, reinstalling your operating system can wipe out the virus. However, this will also erase your data, so it’s a good idea to back up important files beforehand. If you’re unsure, consult a professional for help.
In rare cases, a virus may even survive a system reinstallation. If you’re considering this step, it’s best to get professional advice.
How to Prevent Computer Viruses
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to computer viruses. Here’s how you can protect your devices:
- Use Antivirus Software
Always have reliable antivirus software installed, and enable regular scans to catch any potential threats before they become serious. - Follow the Core 4
Adopting these four cybersecurity habits can significantly reduce your risk of infection:- Use strong, unique passwords for each account (at least 12 characters). A password manager can help you store them securely.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for any accounts that allow it.
- Turn on automatic updates for your hardware, software, and apps.
- Stay alert for phishing attempts and avoid clicking suspicious links.
- Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but often insecure. Use a personal mobile hotspot or a VPN to protect your device when you’re on the go. - Download Software from Verified Sources
Cybercriminals often hide viruses in pirated media or software. Always download from reputable sources and use official app stores to minimize risk. Pirating might save money upfront but could cost you in the long run with potential virus infections.
By following these guidelines, you can reduce your risk of a virus infection and keep your computer running smoothly.
