Malware – that creepy software that can sneak onto your device and cause chaos. But how do you know if your phone or computer has become a malware hangout? Don’t worry, we’ve got the lowdown on the signs to watch out for:
- Slow as a Snail: Is your device suddenly slower than molasses in January? This could be a sign of malware lurking in the background, hogging resources and slowing things down. If your once-speedy device is acting sluggish, it’s time to investigate!
- The Click that Never Ends: Are you constantly getting redirected to weird websites you never clicked on? This is a classic trick of some malware – hijacking your clicks and sending you to suspicious corners of the internet. If your usual browsing experience has turned into a game of “Click Surprise,” something might be fishy.
- Pop-Up Paranoia: Pop-ups are annoying, but a sudden surge of intrusive pop-up ads, especially for things you wouldn’t normally click on, can be a sign of malware infection. Think of them as uninvited guests at your digital door – best to get rid of them ASAP.
- The Unexplained: Unexplained battery drain, mysterious new programs you didn’t install, or even changes to your security settings – these can all be red flags. If your device is acting strangely and you can’t explain it, there might be malware lurking behind the scenes.
If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic! Run a scan with your trusted security software to see if it can detect and remove any malware nasties. Taking action early can save you a lot of headaches.
