Do you think you have spyware on your computer? Do you know the symptoms of spyware infections? Spyware tends to hide in the background, making it difficult for the average user to find out if spyware is on their computer. Signs of spyware can easily be spotted if you know where to look. There are a variety of signs to looks out for, however the three listed are among the most common.

Symptom 1: Slow Computer

Often, spyware uses up your computer’s resources. In other words, spyware gives your computer more to do, making it slower. A slow computer is a giant indicator of possible spyware infections.

Symptom 2: Browser redirects & Pop-up ads

Suppose you are searching for something on Google, suddenly an entirely different search engine comes up. Sometimes, spyware seeks to earn the programmer some money. In order to achieve that end, the spyware program redirects your computer to another page or inserts it own ads.

Spyware programs also tend to display pop-up ads on your computer, even when not browsing the internet. These ads can be extremely annoying as they can constantly pop-up in abundant amounts.

Symptom 3: Programs stop working normally

Another sign of spyware infection is your programs begin to not function normally. A program that works normally one day, can freeze randomly or cease working all together. Spyware tends to be “buggy”. Spyware code isn’t always well constructed, and it’s code can conflict with your normal day to day operations. Furthermore, the amount of programs that cease working will only increase, so take care of it as soon as possible. If not, before long your instead of program, your operating system will stop working.

What should I do?

What you’ll want to do is get an anti-virus/spyware program. Make sure it is up to date and scan for any infections on your computer. It is recommended you scan with more than one program. Anti-malware programs are not perfect and they will miss a few things when scanning. Using one more would help fix that problem.

Also, any scanning should be done while in safe mode. This mode can be accessed by continuously pressing f8 when turning on your computer. Safe mode only allows certain windows functions and services to work while under safe mode. This makes it easy for more pesky spyware infections that hide from scans or block you from opening anti-virus programs.

If you can’t access the web on the infected computer, download the programs and place the installers within a usb. Afterwards, boot the infected computer under safe mode with networking. That way usb ports can function normally and installers can run.

My computer is normal

Even if your computer is perfect, scan it anyway. There is spyware that can completely cover it’s tracks and makes things appear to be normal. By scanning, you can root out these sneaky pests before they do any major damage to your computer.

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