Think twice before you click on that link—even if it was sent to you by a friend or family member.
Think twice before you click on that link—even if it was sent to you by a friend or family member.
Protect your computer from dangerous malware with our checklist of symptoms and signs that show your computer has a virus.
Protect your computer from dangerous malware with our checklist of symptoms and signs that show your computer has a virus.
Slower Internet and Processing
A slower computer doesn't necessarily mean you have a virus, but if it's a sudden enough change in speed, it may be worth checking out. Use a speed test to check your internet speed and use your computer's task manager to measure processing power. If either seem slower than usual, perform a scan with your antivirus software.
Unexpected Computer Behavior
Viruses can do all kinds of strange things to your computer. If your computer stops responding to clicks, decides to open files on its own, scrolls or acts as if a key's been pressed when it hasn't, you may be experiencing computer virus symptoms. Your computer shouldn't seem like it's thinking for itself.
Missing files
Some malware cause problems by deleting files and programs or moving them around. Some may encrypt your files so you aren’t able to open them.
Sudden Freezes & Crashes
Because viruses damage your hard drive, they can cause your computer to experience a catastrophic failure. If you're lucky enough that your computer still turns on after a crash, make sure to run antivirus software to determine whether a virus was the cause.
Error Messages
Your computer knows something is wrong before you do. One of the most noticeable symptoms of a computer virus is the sudden appearance of pop-up messages warning you about missing system or application files. Research messages by putting them in a search engine to see if you can diagnose a virus.
Advertisements
It's common to see ads as you browse the internet, but if you start seeing them when you're not actively browsing, that is a telltale sign of a virus. Do not click on these ads, even if they say they are for antivirus software.
Email is hijacked
If friends start receiving emails or instant messages from your social networks asking them to click on an attachment or link, it’s likely that a virus is attempting to spread to other computers via your accounts. If so, change your passwords immediately.
Outgoing Emails
Viruses try to spread themselves by email. If you notice emails in your sent box that you didn't send, you probably have a virus. If you get an email from a friend that seems suspicious, they might have a virus. Do not click on any links or open any attachments in questionable emails.
Missing or Extra Files
Keep track of the size of your hard drive. A virus may install copies of itself or unwanted files on your computer. Viruses also delete files unexpectedly. When you start seeing something strange or missing, it's time to run a virus scan.
