Signs Your Computer Has A Virus

Internet surfing and connecting other devices to your computer are the most common ways viruses are able to access your PC. With the increase in the number and severity of malware (viruses, trojan horses, etc), identifying an infection can mean the difference between saving and losing your important data.

Like human viruses, most computer viruses have symptoms which can tip you off that your Laptop is infected. These symptoms are easy to remember and keep a look-out for. The most obvious sign your computer has a virus is the reduced performance of your computer, but other signs may show up earlier, giving you time to back up and save personal data.

Other signs a virus may be infecting your computer are:

• Applications running stop responding suddenly, freezing the computer and requiring a restart to work.
• Performance and input response is slow - you attempt to open an application and it takes a long time to open or there’s a delay in mouse clicks & keyboard strokes.
• Computer restarts on its own while you’re using it - screen freezes and then shuts down or restarts.
• Unusual error messages and pop-ups - you may notice unusual Windows pop-ups without being online or coming up from the task bar notification area. The pop-ups may ask you to take certain actions immediately (Don’t act on these!) If you follow these instructions you will be in a worse situation so be aware.
• Your antivirus may be disabled without your permission.
• Unfamiliar icons or shortcuts may show up on your desktop. Don’t click these either!
• Unfamiliar Windows system error messages will pop-up.
• You can’t access devices connected to your computer or they may show up as unrecognized devices.
• Programs and applications may be unavailable or removed without your permission.

If your computer shows the above symptoms your PC may be infected with a virus. First, Back-up your important files and documents to an external storage device like a flash drive. Next, scan and remove any viruses using your computers anti-virus program.

If your computers anti-virus program doesn’t fix the problem, shut the computer down and bring it to a computer repair professional. They have access to advanced malware removal programs and knowledge that can remove the infection and get your computer running properly.