Malware
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Malware
Malware is an abbreviated form of “malicious software.” This is software that is specifically designed to gain access to or damage a computer, usually without the knowledge of the owner.
Some signs of Malware on your device
- Slower performance - If you notice a dramatic slowdown in your computer’s speed, that may be a sign malware found its way on your device. You may also notice screen freezing, unexplained restarts, and random Wi-Fi disconnects.
- Unwanted Pop-ups - Pop-up ads annoy a lot of online users — which is why many browsers come with pop-up blockers pre-installed.
- Diminished hard drive space - Dramatic changes in your computer’s storage capacity could be a sign that your device is hosting dangerous malware. Little to no space could mean that malicious software was able to compromise multiple files, as malware expands as it goes deeper into your system.
- Browser redirects - Though not every redirect is dangerous, there are some browser redirects that could lead you to potentially harmful websites. For instance, hackers can create browser extensions designed to automatically redirect you to their malware-infected sites. They’ll use these to collect and record your personal data.