I noticed some strange activity on my Windows 10 desktop, like the "On-Screen Keyboard" showing up and multiple apps opening really quickly in the task manager. I haven't downloaded anything recently or visited any sketchy websites. I shut down and unplugged my computer as soon as I saw the weird behavior. I'm thinking about taking it to a repair shop to either remove the potential viruses or just do a factory reset depending on how bad it is. Is this the right approach, or should I do something different?
5 Answers
The correct plan is to back up any important data to an external hard drive first. Then create a Windows 10 installation media on a different device, wipe your SSD or HDD, reinstall Windows, and restore your data while ensuring autorun is off.
Honestly, I wouldn’t trust a repair shop for this, and a factory reset might not be enough. First, disconnect it from the internet right away. Use another secure device to change all your passwords for accounts you accessed on the hacked computer. Then, create a bootable USB, wipe your infected PC completely, reinstall Windows, and only connect it back to the internet when you're sure it's clean.
Changing passwords is crucial. You can't be too careful!
Really depends on the severity of the virus. A fresh install of Windows is usually the way to go. After that, do a full scan with Malwarebytes and back up your data afterward.
This sounds serious. If someone got into your computer, they might have accessed your data. Make sure you freeze your credit with the credit bureaus, and set up 2FA on all your financial accounts. Check for any unauthorized charges too. After all that, focus on wiping your PC and reinstalling everything. And it's a good idea to sign up for identity protection services for extra security.
Before doing anything drastic, I'd recommend reinstalling Windows using a USB drive. After that, change all your passwords and make sure to enable two-factor authentication where possible.
Definitely agree! Keeping it offline is a smart move.