Common Signs of Infection
Viruses and malware don't always announce themselves. Here are the warning signs to look for:
Performance Issues
**Computer is much slower than usual** - malware uses your computer's resources
**Programs take forever to open** or crash frequently
**Your hard drive is constantly active** even when you're not doing anything
Strange Behaviour
**Pop-up ads appearing** even when you're not browsing the web
**Your homepage or search engine has changed** without you doing it
**New toolbars or programs** appeared that you didn't install
**Your browser redirects** to websites you didn't intend to visit
**Friends receive emails or messages from you** that you didn't send
Security Warnings
**Your antivirus has been disabled** - some malware turns off your protection
**Fake security warnings** telling you to call a number or download software
**Unable to access certain websites** (especially security-related sites)
Ransom Demands
**Files are encrypted** and you're asked to pay to unlock them
**Screen is locked** with a message demanding payment
What to Do If You Suspect Infection
**Disconnect from the internet** - this prevents the malware from spreading or sending your data
**Don't enter any passwords** or banking details
**Don't pay any ransom** - there's no guarantee you'll get your files back
**Run your antivirus** if it's still working
**Bring it to a professional** - some infections require specialised tools to remove
The sooner you act, the better the outcome. Some malware gets worse the longer it's left untreated.
**Think your computer is infected?** Bring it to Midland Computers. We can remove viruses and malware while preserving your files in 99% of cases.