Malware is a general term for any type of software that is used to compromise a computer intentionally. Things like viruses, worms, and spyware are all examples of malware, and each has its specific purpose. As a result, you may find yourself dealing with something as simple as excessive amounts of spam, or full-blown identity theft.
One thing that may signal the presence of some form of malware is computer slowdown. Your operating system may take longer than normal to boot up, or programs may take too long to open. This might only mean that your computer needs a memory upgrade, the system needs to be defragged, or the hard drive lacks space, but it could also mean that malware is running in the background.
Sure signs that malware has gotten onto your computer include: constant pop-ups and error messages, sudden changes in browser homepages, new toolbars that can’t be removed, unwanted Web pages opening automatically, suspicious hard drive activity and running out of hard drive space, and system crashes.
At its worst, malware can take the form of keyloggers that record all your keystrokes and allow hackers to figure out passwords. And over time, malware can also eventually lead to a complete hardware failure by deleting vital operating system files and overwhelming the hard drive with too many applications running at the same time.
Always make sure your virus detection programs are up to date with the latest definitions, and consider using multiple anti-spyware programs to cast a wide net for as many types of malware as possible. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that some types of malware are designed to disable antivirus programs and leave your computer vulnerable to all kinds of threats.
If you suspect that your home or business computer has been affected by malware, don’t wait to take care of it! Contact CompuMarc Computer Consulting for fast and reliable onsite computer repair. We are open seven days a week, and our experts are always here to answer your questions. Contact us today!