In today's digital world, a computer virus or other malware can quickly compromise your devices and data. Recognizing the early warning signs is your first line of defense. As your local tech experts in Olmsted Township and Olmsted Falls, Olmsted Tech Rescue wants to empower Northeast Ohio residents to stay safe online. Here are 5 common indicators that your computer or phone might be infected.

1. Slow Performance or Overheating

   One of the most common red flags is a sudden, unexplained drop in your device's speed. If your computer or phone feels sluggish, freezes frequently, or starts overheating even when it's idle, a virus might be secretly running resource-intensive background processes. Check your system's resource monitor (Task Manager on Windows via `Ctrl+Shift+Esc` or Activity Monitor on Mac) for unusually high CPU, memory, or disk usage from unfamiliar programs. For example, a process like "svchost.exe" consuming 50% or more CPU constantly is highly suspicious.

2. Unexpected Pop-Ups or Ads

   Are you constantly bombarded with pop-up windows, aggressive advertisements, or fake antivirus alerts urging you to "scan now" or "fix issues"? This is a classic sign of adware or scareware infection. **Never click on these links!** They are designed to trick you into downloading more malware or revealing personal information. Instead, immediately close the browser, run a full system scan with a reputable antivirus tool, and consider installing a robust ad blocker like uBlock Origin for future protection.

3. Browser Redirects or Changed Settings

   If your web browser consistently redirects you to unfamiliar websites, or if your homepage, default search engine, or toolbar changes without your permission, your browser has likely been hijacked. Viruses often modify browser settings to force you to specific (often malicious) sites. Check your browser's extensions or add-ons for anything suspicious and remove it immediately. It's also wise to reset your browser settings to their default configuration. Avoid entering sensitive information like banking details until you're certain the issue is resolved.

4. Unrecognized Devices on Your Network

   Some malware can spread across your local network, potentially allowing unauthorized devices to connect. Periodically log into your Wi-Fi router's administration page (usually `192.168.1.1` or `192.168.0.1` in your browser) and review the list of connected devices. If you spot any unknown or suspicious devices, this is a major security concern. Immediately change your Wi-Fi password to a strong, unique one, and if your router supports it, enable WPA3 encryption for enhanced security.

5. Emails Sent Without Your Knowledge

   If your friends, family, or colleagues report receiving strange, spammy, or suspicious emails from your account that you didn't send, your email account or even your entire device might be compromised. This indicates a virus or phishing attack has gained access. The immediate steps are to change your email password (and any other accounts using the same password), enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible, and perform a thorough malware scan on your device. Also, check your email's "Sent" folder for any unfamiliar messages.

If you notice any of these signs, don't panic, but don't ignore them either. Early detection and action can prevent significant data loss or privacy breaches. Attempting to remove complex malware on your own can sometimes cause more harm.

Suspect a virus or malware on your computer?