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Five signs your computer is infected
POP-UP ADS
Running into pop-up ads while surfing the Web used to be par for the course. Thanks to pop-up blocking now standard in modern browsers, these annoyances aren't common.
Still seeing pop-ups online from multiple sites? It could be a badly-configured browser.
Seeing pop-ups when your browser isn't even open? It's usually adware, spyware or scareware.
You can usually tell it's the last one if the pop up says "a virus was detected." It will offer you a paid program to remove the virus. Of course, you'll just be downloading even more malware.
PHANTOM MESSAGES
A dangerous feature of most malware is that it spreads. With always-on Internet, email, instant messaging and social media available, modern viruses have it easy.
Once they're on your computer, they have plenty of options. You might see friends replying to email messages you didn't send. Perhaps you notice a post on your Facebook profile you didn't write.
In most cases, these will have a tempting link. If your friends and family click the link, they're infected and the virus spreads even further.
LOCKED COMPUTER
Having trouble taking back your account from a virus or hacker?
You're surfing the Web minding your own business. Suddenly a scary message appears. It says law enforcement has detected illegal material on your computer. You've been locked out until you pay a fine!
Of course it's a lie. A virus has taken over and is holding your computer ransom. That's why it's commonly called "ransomware."
Some ransomware doesn't even try to be sneaky. It tells you up front that hackers took over your system. You have to pay to get it back.
I don't recommend paying. You won't get your computer back.
ESSENTIAL TOOLS AND PROGRAMS STOP WORKING
If a computer is misbehaving, most computer users hit Ctrl + Alt + Del. The "three-finger salute" lets you open up Task Manager. This can show you what programs are causing trouble.
EVERYTHING IS RUNNING FINE
I run into many people who don't install security software. The excuse is always the same: "But my computer runs just fine without it. If I had a virus, I'd know."
The simple fact is that you don't know. Modern malware can hide deep in your computer without raising red flags. It will just quietly go about its business.
There are some sneaky viruses that will remove other viruses so you don't get suspicious!
Just because a virus isn't disruptive doesn't mean it isn't dangerous. It could be snagging your passwords, sensitive files or other vital information. The virus could be using your computer to send spam. It could even attack banks and other organizations.
You won't know until your identity is stolen and your bank account is drained. Maybe your Internet slows to a crawl or your service provider shuts down your connection.
Some people never figure it out. There are computers out there that have been sending spam for years. Their owners have no clue.
That's why every computer user, even Mac users, needs up-to-date security software installed. Keep it updated and set it to run regular, automatic scans.