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Six signs you have a computer virus and how to remove it

In 2022, there were over 1.3 billion malware programmes in existence and 10 per cent of these were computer viruses, according to research from the AV-Test Institute. 

A computer virus may spread from one device to another, take over your software and steal information that can be held at ransom. 

Spam emails, instant messaging, file-sharing devices, fake antivirus downloads, unpatched software, and infected hardware are the ways in which viruses can infect your computer.

Cybersecurity experts VPN Overview reveals six common symptoms of having a computer virus and how to remove it. 

  1. Slow performance

If you’re regularly updating and taking care of it, your device should work soundly. Malicious code, however, typically hijacks computing power and may lead to unbearably slow performance. 

  1. Freeze-ups and crashing

There are multiple reasons why your laptop might be crashing. It may be time to restart it, close one of the many windows you have open, or buy a new one – but it could also be a sign your computer has a virus.

  1. Missing files

Malware has been known to delete important data. Once it has infiltrated your device, you may receive multiple pop-ups and notice your files are missing. Don’t ignore this, it’s a tell-tale sign of a virus that should be taken seriously. 

  1. New files appear

In addition to missing files, you may also notice new files mysteriously appearing. Viruses can replace your files with encrypted ones, although these are likely malicious and will only further harm your device if you click on them. 

  1. Problems with hardware

Viruses have been known to cause system changes that affect external hardware and accessories. If you can’t get that USB drive and wireless mouse to connect properly or work as it should, for example, it could be a sign of a virus. 

  1. Computer operating by itself

If you’re noticing that your device is acting unusually, maybe files are opening by themselves, or it feels like another person is controlling your computer, you may have a virus. 

 

How to remove a virus from your computer

  1. Download an antivirus programme

These will offer you effective real-time protection against malware. There are countless options to choose from, such as Bitdefender for Windows and Avast Security for Mac. 

  1. Disconnect from the internet

Malware often spread viruses through the internet, which can lead to multiple devices becoming infected. To stop this from happening, disconnect from the Wi-Fi network.

  1. Run a virus scan

This will likely detect the virus infecting your computer and remove it. If the scan fails, you may wish to remove it manually by using the Windows Registry or launching your activity monitor on a Mac. 

  1. Check for updates

Windows and Mac regularly release these to keep your device as secure as possible from cyberattacks. 

  1. Enable your firewall

Firewalls help protect your device from any unauthorised access. These are usually included in your antivirus software, so remember to enable them by going into System Preferences or the Windows Start menu. 

VPNOverview.com is a dedicated team of cybersecurity and privacy professionals offering guidance on these topics in the most accessible way possible. 

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