Malware is malicious software that can cause damage on your computer, phone or tablet. It can make your device run slowly and can steal your data.
Here’s how you can spot hidden malware on your devices.
What is Malware?
The most common types of malware are created by hackers and are spread with intent. There are lots of different types, including:
Viruses
Viruses spread from device to device. They can destroy your files or make you computer run really slowly.
Trojans
Trojans will appear to be useful, but contain harmful software and can steal your information.
Ransomware
Ransomware will lock your files. It will then ask for money in exchange for unlocking them.
How Does Malware Get Onto Your Device?
Malware can creep onto your device in so many ways:
Downloading Bad Files
It’s easy to download a file containing malware. Be careful what you click!
Visiting Bad Websites
Some websites can put malicious software on your device when you visit them.
Opening Weird Emails
Hackers can send emails with malware attached. Don’t open emails from people you don’t know, and be super diligent with attachments.
What are the Signs of Hidden Malware?
Malware can be sneaky, but there are some signs to look out for.
Sluggish Device
If your device is running really slowly, it may have malware. Also look for reduced battery life that’s inconsistent with the normal lifecycle of your battery.
Suspicious Pop-ups
If you have pop-ups that you can’t explain (or sometimes “pop-unders”, which try to hide) then malware may be to blame.
High Data Usage
If your internet speeds seem slower than usual, or you’re using more data than normal, you could be infected with malware.
How Can You Check for Malware?
There are several ways to search for malware on your device:
Use Antivirus SoftwareAntivirus packages can scan your device for malware. They can find it, and remove it.
Check your Apps
Look at all the apps on your device. Delete any that you don’t remember installing.
Look at Task Manager
Open Task Manager if you’re using a PC, or Activity Monitor if you’re on a Mac. Look for programs you don’t recognise, that have weird names or that are using a lot of resources.
Check your Browser
Check your browser extensions. Remove any that you do not use or recognise.
There are some other tell tale signs, including unrecognised items in your start up list, which start automatically when you computer is switched on.
What to Do if you Discover Malware?
Run a Full Scan
Use your antivirus to run a full scan of your device.If you don’t have antivirus in place please, please get in touch with us today, even if it’s only for a recommendation.
Update your Software
Software is constantly being updated to close loopholes being exploited by hackers. Keep your software up to date to capitalise on these efforts and protect yourself.
Change Your Passwords
Change the passwords of all your valuable accounts. See our earlier post on using a password manager.
Backup your Data
Backup your important files to a safe location, such as a cloud service. This should be a continuous process, and not one you look at after you find a problem. Again – please get in touch today if you’re not doing this regularly.
How to Avoid Malware?
It’s better not to let malware onto any of your devices at all. Here’s how:
Keep Everything Up-to-Date
This includes your operating system (Windows / MacOS / Android / iPadOS / iOS) in addition to your software packages, as mentioned above.
Be Careful What you Click
Avoid clicking on any link or downloading any files unless you are certain that they’re safe. Remember that people who experience a cyberattack probably also thought they were safe – be open to double checking.
Use Strong Passwords
Make your password long and hard to guess. Use different passwords for each account.
This password is strong: 2qfY3845R7!nj2H2 (that was generated using the LastPass app)
This password is weak: letmein
See here for the most common passwords currently in use, and make sure that you’re not using any!
Use Antivirus Software
Keep good, up to date, antivirus software on your device, run quick scans frequently and full scans regularly.
Choose your antivirus software carefully – don’t just pick the cheapest because!
Malware can be scary, but you can protect yourself. Always be careful online and keep your devices safe. If you need help with malware or want to learn more about online safety, contact us today. We’re here to help you stay safe in the digital world!
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
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