Has My Computer Been Infected?
Last Updated: August 23, 2006
How do I know if my computer has been infected?
Ask yourself the following questions:
- My computer is running slowly, it was much faster just last month.
- When I go to Google or Yahoo, another search site shows up.
- My computer freezes or restarts frequently, even when I try to open a Word document.
- I see all these new program icons on my screen, but I don't remember downloading them.
If you answer yes to one or more questions above, chances are that you have been infected.
How can I clean-up my computer once I'm infected?
Well, it depends. In most cases, you can run your favorite antivirus software or one of the anti-spyware to clean-up your computer. But in some more serious cases, you may have to reformat your hard drive. So it is always a good idea to backup your critical data.
What is a computer virus?
A computer virus is a malicious program that when triggered, erase files on
your computer, insert its own text in your documents, or replicate itself
to other computers in your e-mail list.
What is a computer worm?
A computer worm is a malicious programs that, without the user's knowledge,
infect computers on the network, wait for a central command or a specified
time, to launch an automated attack to a web site or a company.
What is a Spyware?
A spyware is a computer program that disguises itself as a useful program,
but in reality, collects and sells the usage statistics to advertisers or hackers.
What is Phishing?
Phishing is a scam via e-mail or web sites that impersonate well known organizations,
with the intent to steal money from you