How to Know if Your Computer Has Contracted a Virus

While the Internet has provided us with a host of conveniences, there are also some potential dangers to watch out for. Personal data theft, practices such as phishing and data corruption are some of the most common issues that we may have to face from time to time. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be difficult to recognize such dangers until the damage has already been done. This is why it is important to appreciate some of the symptoms which could indicate that your computer or smartphone has downloaded a virus. The good news is that you do not need to possess a great deal of technical expertise in order to halt the progression of such infections in their tracks. Let us, therefore, take a quick look at some indications that a virus may be present as well as what you may be able to do to remedy the situation.

Telltale Signs of a Computer Virus

Viruses can be quite tricky due to the simple fact that (much like their human counterparts) their presence will not be known until symptoms begin to show. Perhaps the most common indicator of a problem involves an operating system that suddenly functions much slower than in the past for no apparent reason. However, this is only the beginning.

You should also keep an eye out for any abnormal systemic behaviour such as:

• System messages indicating that your virtual memory is too low.
• Programs (online and offline) that suddenly crash for no apparent reason.
• Homepages that change without your permission.
• Countless pop-up links when you navigate to secure websites.
• A great deal of spam in your email inbox

If one or more of these situations are present, the chances are high that a virus may have infected your operating system.

A Quick Look at Your Options

We should first mention that you need to develop a rather discriminatory attitude when browsing the Internet. This is particularly relevant if you are a fan of gaming. It is always wise to read independent reviews in order to discover the most trustworthy portals. Here is an example of such a website.

Secondly, perform a standard diagnostic check via your system settings in order to determine if anything seems out of order. Assuming that your computer is unable to detect any problems, you should run a thorough scan through the use of a trust antivirus platform. This is the best way to uncover any hidden faults. In the majority of cases, a quality antivirus service will be able to remedy the infection without compromising your existing files. A handful of additional tips and tricks to keep in mind include:

• Always clear your browser cache and cookies on a regular basis.
• Follow any recommended system updates.
• Register for a proactive antivirus service.
• Never click on unknown links or visit unfamiliar websites.

Please keep all of these recommendations in mind, as they can save you from more profound issues in the future.