I recently downloaded a corrupted file that led to malware getting into my Discord account, even though I have Google authentication enabled. I've deleted many apps from my PC and changed passwords on my phone to secure my accounts. I'm considering resetting my PC to remove everything and reinstall Windows, but I'm worried about my data. Is that the best option, or should I consult a professional who knows how to deal with malware?
1 Answer
If you think your PC has malware, avoid using the "Reset this PC" feature. You're counting on a compromised system to fix itself, which isn't safe. Instead, you should do a clean install of Windows. You can create a Windows installer on a USB drive using a different, non-infected machine. This way, you can boot directly into the installer on your compromised PC, without trusting the existing Windows setup to get rid of the malware. It's definitely doable for someone with basic tech skills, but if you're uncomfortable, getting a pro to help is also a smart move.
I panicked and already reset it, but I did change all my passwords through my phone first. Should I still worry about trusting my PC to restore itself safely?