I recently discovered some malware on my computer called an Hijack Loader, which I quarantined and deleted. However, I'm starting to wonder if my PC is really safe since I've noticed it getting slower and buggier. I use it mainly for gaming, and I keep my important accounts on my phone, so losing everything wouldn't be a disaster. I'm considering resetting my PC to be safe, but I wanted to get some advice from others who might know more about this situation. Should I reset my PC completely or can I just clean it up?
3 Answers
It's usually best to nuke it from orbit to be completely safe. A reset can really clear out any leftover issues. Just make sure you have legit media and everything backed up before you proceed. There's always a chance that remnants of the malware could still be lurking. Better to be safe than sorry!
I’d avoid just using the reset feature since it sometimes leaves junk behind. It’s easier to do a fresh install and strip everything down. Don’t forget to also change your passwords on important accounts afterward!
That's a solid point! I'll definitely do that once I've reset everything.
Most PUPs aren't malware, but if you've dealt with a hijack loader before, it's better to clean house. Clean everything out and reset your PC—it's worth it for your peace of mind. You can always set up two-factor authentication for your accounts as an extra layer of security!
Good to know! I was worried about PUPs, but yeah, safety first!
Yeah, I agree! A fresh start is worth the trouble, especially if you’ve downloaded stuff from sketchy sites.