Common Symptoms of Malware
There are many problems that your device may experience due to being infected with malware. Below you will find some common symptoms.
- Pop-up ads and windows - Often, infected computers will start displaying pop-up messages. Many even indicate that your computer is infected and to "Click Here" for help. Do not click on these types of pop-ups as this is usually a scam trying to get you to purchase fake software to clean your computer.
- Your browser homepage has changed and you did not change it - Many types of malware will either redirect your web browser or set the default web page to a site you are not familiar with. This is called "Browser Hijacking".
- You get ransom warnings - Possibly the worst form of malware. Cyber criminals that gain access to your computer can hijack your data, encrypt it, and demand a ransom to decrypt it and return it to you.
- Programs that you did not install are on your computer - Sometimes malware will install software on your computer that you are not aware of. If you notice a new program that you did not install, you may have malware.
What to do?
The best way to stop malware is preventative measures to ensure malware can't be installed in the first place. But, if you find yourself with malware, there are things you can do to help stop the attack.
If you believe your SLU account is affected, contact the IT department immediately for assistance.
- Remove unwanted ads, pop-ups & malware - Computer - Google Chrome Help
- What is a browser hijacker, and how do you remove one? – Microsoft 365
- Remove malware or unsafe software - Computer - Google Account Help
- Remove specific prevalent malware with Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool (KB890830) - Microsoft Support
Other steps to take:
- Reset your password and the password of any accounts that share that password.
- Revoke active sessions.
- If the affected account is your SLU account, the IT department can help with this.
- See devices with account access - Google Account Help