Addressing cybersecurity challenges: What’s the best anti-virus advice?

Hacks have increased through the pandemic and the war in Ukraine – © AFP/File Noel Celis

A cybersecurity expert has explained to Digital Journal about the six signs that indicate if you have a computer virus. The advice then expands on how to remove the virus from your device.

In 2022, there were over 1.3 billion malware programmes in existence and 10 percent of these were computer viruses, according to research from the AV-Test Institute. A computer virus may spread from one device to another, take over your software and steal information that can be held at ransom.

Spam emails, instant messaging, file-sharing devices, fake antivirus downloads, unpatched software and infected hardware are the ways in which viruses can infect your computer.

The new advice comes from VPN Overview and it reveals six common symptoms of having a computer virus and how to remove it.

Slow performance

Observing computer performance is one of the first tell-tale signs in terms of whether there is a virus at play. Malicious code typically hijacks computing power and may lead to unbearably slow performance.

Freeze-ups and crashing

There are multiple reasons why a laptop might be crashing. It may be time to restart it, close down one of the many windows you have open or buy a new one – but it could also be a sign your computer has a virus.

Missing files

Malware has been known to delete important data. Once it has infiltrated your device, you may receive multiple pop-ups and notice your files are missing. Do not ignore this – it is a tell-tale sign of a virus that should be taken seriously.

New files appear

In addition to missing files, you may also notice new files mysteriously appearing. Viruses can replace your files with encrypted ones, although these are likely malicious and will only further harm your device if you click on them.

Problems with hardware

Viruses have been known to cause system changes that affect external hardware and accessories. If you can’t get that USB drive and wireless mouse to connect properly or work as it should, for example, it could be a sign of a virus.

Computer operating by itself

Computers are complex machines, but they shouldn’t be executing demands without your…