I accidentally clicked on a link that seemed normal but led me to a sketchy page asking for a captcha confirmation. I mistakenly followed their instructions to open the RUN dialog (Windows + R) and paste in a command, which I now realize might have executed something malicious. Thankfully, I deleted the HTML app that was downloaded, but I did see some suspicious code executed. I'm running as an admin, and I'm really worried I've installed a virus. What steps should I take next?
5 Answers
First, try scanning with multiple tools like Windows Security, Housecall, etc. You've got to be proactive about protecting yourself after this incident!
It sounds like you've likely installed malware. The safest move is to back up your important files (if they’re not already infected) and then perform a complete wipe of your system drive to reinstall Windows. Make sure your backups are clean, though!
You definitely need to take this seriously. Run a full system scan with Windows Security or another good antivirus like Sophos. After that, use another device to change passwords for your important accounts just in case.
Wiping your system is your best bet. Since you directly executed that command, it could be dangerous. It’s a naughty thing to let it run like that. Better safe than sorry!
I recommend resetting your PC. It’s probably a virus now, and downloading is usually safe, but executing stuff is risky business.
Yeah, be careful with backups now; if they’re infected, you might just spread the malware back onto your fresh install.