Every day, 4,000 computers are hacked. Could yours be next? Hackers can monitor your online activity, including your clicks and keystrokes. Even worse, they might be able to access your webcam. So, here’s how to tell if your computer has been compromised and take steps to protect yourself.
Can my Computer be Hacked Without me Knowing?
Yes, your computer can be hacked without you realising it. Hackers use various methods such as malware, phishing attacks, and exploiting software vulnerabilities to gain unauthorised access. Moreover, signs of hacking include unusual activity, slow performance, and unexpected changes in your system.
Where Can I Check if I Have Been Hacked?
In checking if your computer has been hacked, look for unusual activity on your computer, security scans that fail, high network usage, or anything suspicious in your online accounts. If you suspect your computer might be compromised (unusual activity is a big red flag), take action immediately. Windows users can run a quick scan by going to Settings, then Update & Security. From there, navigate to Windows Security, Virus threat protection, and finally, Quick scan.
Check for Unusual Activity
Look for programs or applications running that you did not install. Monitor your computer’s performance for unexplained slowdowns or crashes. Check your browser for unexpected changes, such as a new homepage or unwanted toolbars.
Run Security Scans
Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to perform a full system scan. Programs such as Malwarebytes, Norton, and Bitdefender can detect and remove malicious software.
Review Network Activity
Check your network activity for unusual data usage or unknown devices connected to your network. Tools like Wireshark can help monitor network traffic.
Check Account Activity
Review your online accounts for unauthorised logins or changes. Many services, such as Google and Facebook, offer activity logs where you can see recent sign-ins and actions.
Use Security Tools
Employ built-in system tools such as Task Manager on Windows or Activity Monitor on Mac to identify suspicious processes. Use firewall software to block unknown connections and monitor for unusual traffic.
What Happens When your PC is Hacked?
A lot of things could go wrong if your pc has been hacked, hackers might steal your data, install malware, gain unauthorised access and control of your computer, or compromise your online accounts. All of this can lead to the worst outcome – financial loss.
Data Theft
Hackers can steal personal information, such as passwords, financial data, and sensitive documents. This information can be used for identity theft or sold on the dark web.
Malware Installation
Malicious software, including viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware, can be installed on your system. This can lead to further data breaches, system damage, or extortion if ransomware encrypts your files and demands payment for their release.
Unauthorised Access and Control
Hackers can gain remote access to your computer, allowing them to control your system, monitor your activities, and use your computer for illegal activities such as launching attacks on other networks.
Financial Loss
If financial information is compromised, hackers can make unauthorised transactions, resulting in financial loss. They might also use your accounts to make fraudulent purchases or transfers.
System Performance Issues
Your computer might become noticeably slower, crash frequently, or exhibit unusual behaviour due to malicious software consuming resources or corrupting system files.
Compromised Online Accounts
Access to your online accounts, including email and social media, can be compromised. Hackers might use these accounts to send spam, phishing messages, or malicious links to your contacts.
Related Topic: What To Do If Your Identity Documents Have Been Compromised
How do you Know if a Hacker is Watching you?
Detecting if a hacker is watching you involves paying attention to several warning signs. Unusual webcam activity, such as the webcam light turning on unexpectedly, can be a strong indicator of remote access. Suspicious network activity, including unusually high data usage or unknown devices connected to your network, also suggests potential monitoring.
Moreover, unexpected system behaviour like random mouse movements, unexplained application activity, and frequent pop-ups or ads can indicate malware presence. Additionally, sudden performance issues, frequent crashes, and alerts from security software may signal a compromised system.
9 Things to do When you Get Hacked
If your computer has been hacked, there’s still time to act. Here are 10 steps to take back control:
Disconnect from the Internet
This stops the hacker from accessing your system remotely.
Change Your Passwords
Update the passwords for your important accounts (email, bank, social media) on a different device you trust. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible for an extra layer of security.
Run Security Scans
Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software such as Malwarebytes, Norton, or Bitdefender to scan your system for and remove any malicious programs.
Check and Secure Your Accounts
In addition, review your online accounts for unusual activity and update your security settings. If you suspect your financial information is compromised, contact your bank and other financial institutions immediately.
Update Software
Keep your operating system and all applications updated to the latest versions to patch security vulnerabilities.
Remove Unknown Applications
Check your programs and uninstall any unfamiliar ones that you didn’t install yourself.
Enable Firewalls
Make sure your system’s firewall is switched on to block unauthorised access. Consider adding extra firewall software if needed.
Monitor Your Devices and Accounts
Keep an eye on your devices and account for any more suspicious activity. Set up alerts for unusual transactions or login attempts.
Backup Important Data
Finally, regularly backup your important data to an external drive or cloud storage to avoid data loss in future attacks.
Related Topic: Online Brand Protection
How to Avoid Being Hacked
To avoid being hacked, keep your software and operating systems up to date, use strong and unique passwords, and enable two-factor authentication on your accounts. Additionally, Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware programs, and regularly scan your system for threats. Be cautious of suspicious emails, links, and attachments, and avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions. Ensure your network is secure by using strong encryption and regularly monitoring for unusual activity. Lastly, back up important data regularly to mitigate the impact of potential breaches.
Contact Cybertrace
If you’ve been hacked and your online accounts have been breached, consider seeking help from a cyber professional such as Cybertrace. We may be able to help you investigate the Scammer and potentially hold the hackers accountable.
Additionally, Cybertrace can investigate hacked social media accounts, at Cybertrace, we start by gathering all relevant information from you and analysing recent account activity. Using forensic tools, we examine login logs, and trace IP addresses.. Finally, we assist in recovering your account by working directly with the social media platform and implementing stronger security measures.
