I need some insight on a bizarre incident with my Windows 10 laptop (version 22H2). Last night, I was using it normally before heading to bed, but when I was at work today, I noticed my Spotify started playing from the laptop, which should have been asleep. My girlfriend was home and heard the audio too, so she opened and closed the lid to put it back to sleep.
When I got back, I found several odd things happening:
- The taskbar had moved.
- Random programs and windows were open, including:
- Microsoft Edge (which I never use), displaying some strange MSN tabs.
- Google Earth with weird lines drawn on it.
- Windows Event Viewer was open.
- Bulk Crap Uninstaller (something I installed a while back but haven't used recently).
- A screenshot with scribbles and random lines.
- Calculator.
I ran full scans with Windows Defender and Malwarebytes — both came back clean. I'm cautious with downloads and avoid sketchy sites. I guess I'm just really curious:
1. Could someone have hacked into my laptop remotely?
2. Is there a way to check what programs were run or files accessed while I was gone?
3. What steps should I take next to investigate this and protect myself?
1 Answer
It sounds like you might not have been hacked. Have you checked if any remote access apps like TeamViewer or AnyDesk were installed? Also, did anyone else besides your girlfriend have access to your laptop? It's worth considering if she was playing a prank on you! Usually, hackers aim for personal info instead of just messing around with stuff.
Funny you mention pranks, I wouldn't put it past her!
Right? I wouldn't be worried about a hack if someone was just messing around or if a pet jumped on the keyboard!