Remove spyware from your computer
Spyware is good at hiding on your computer, which means you might already have it without even knowing it. This type of malware can cause a lot of damage. And because of that, just the thought of having spyware on your device can be very stressful.
Spyware not only fills your computer’s screen with annoying pop-up ads but also puts you in danger by tracking what you do on your device.
Continue reading to learn how to get rid of spyware on your computer and some useful tips on how to protect your device in the future.
What is spyware on a computer?
Spyware is a malicious program that can secretly install itself on your computer and send your personal information without you even knowing it. It’s the most sneaky type of malware that allows cybercriminals to spy on you. Spyware can go unnoticed for a very long time and do some serious damage. It can collect sensitive data, such as credit card numbers and passwords, make audio and video recordings using your webcam and microphone, and access information from your emails and social media accounts.
| Type | Spyware, malware |
| Affected devices | Computers |
| Symptoms | Slower performance, new desktop icons, new toolbars, unexpected browser homepage change, pop-up ads, overheating |
| Damage | Tracking and stealing personal data like credit card numbers, passwords, emails, social media, browser searches |
How to get rid of spyware on a computer
There are a few easy ways to remove spyware from your computer. If you're an Apple user, check out how to remove spyware from your iPhone. The fastest and safest way to get rid of spyware is by using antivirus software, such as Bitdefender. Other ways include updating your operating system and deleting suspicious files. Here’s how you can get rid of spyware from your computer:
1. Use an antivirus
Detecting spyware and deleting it by using an antivirus is pretty straightforward. For this, you’ll need a reliable antivirus software, such as TotalAV. Having a good quality antivirus not only helps to remove malware, but also prevents malicious programs from entering your computer in the future.
Here’s how to get rid of spyware by using an antivirus:
- Download and install an antivirus on your computer. I recommend TotalAV, now 80% OFF
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Open your antivirus app
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Run a system scan
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Check, if any threats were found and take recommended actions
2. Update your operating system to the latest version
Operating systems and apps go through frequent updates. Therefore, it’s important to keep your computer up to date by performing regular updates. This way your computer can benefit from improved security features to patch up shortcomings of the operating system that could be exploited by spyware.
3. Uninstall suspicious files
It is common that spyware results in the appearance of new apps and programs that you’re not aware of. Clear your computer of any apps and programs that seem suspicious or you don’t remember installing.
4. Factory reset
Factory reset is the last thing on the list you’ll want to do to remove spyware from your device. Since, after this step, all of your files, programs, and settings will be gone from the hard drive, make sure to back up your data in advance.
How to tell if someone is spying on your PC
It’s not easy to tell if you have someone spying on your computer. Therefore, it’s good to be attentive and know some signs that could indicate this problem. Most common indicators of spyware are:
- Computer is running slower than usual. If you noticed that your computer unexpectedly started working slower and experience frequent freezing and crashing, it can be a sign of spyware on your device.
- Receiving a lot of pop-ups when you’re online. Increased amount of pop-up ads and error messages is a very common sign of spyware infection.
- Battery drain. If your computer battery suddenly starts to drain faster, this could mean that you have spyware running in the background.
- New icons on your desktop. Some spyware can disguise itself as legitimate apps, therefore it’s a good idea to regularly check the apps that were recently installed on your computer. If you notice new icons appear on your desktop, but don’t remember installing any new apps, this could mean that you have spyware.
- New browser homepage. You noticed that the browser homepage changed and new icons appeared on your desktop, but you made no changes recently.
- Unusual behavior. Unexpected reboots or strange notifications, while could be caused by other reasons, very likely indicate a presence of spyware.
Keep in mind that these signs don’t necessarily mean that you have spyware, since other types of malware can show signs that are very similar. To figure out what problem you are dealing with exactly, use an antivirus program to scan your computer.
How does spyware get on your computer?
Spyware can infect your computer in several ways. Depending on the type of spyware, one way it can get on your computer is when you download programs. For example, your computer can get infected when you download malicious software that disguises itself as a legitimate tool (e.g., download manager, disk cleaner). Be careful and always choose trusted providers.
Other ways spyware can get on your computer can be by clicking on malicious links and attachments sent to your email or accepting cookies from untrusted sites. Therefore, practicing caution when browsing sites is also very important.
Lastely, accepting pop-ups is a common way for malware to get on your computer. It can be downloaded by clicking on the pop-ups from untrusted sites. To avoid getting your computer infected, never click OK or agree on the window you suspect could contain malware. Instead, click on the X icon in the corner to close the window.
How can I protect my computer against spyware?
Spyware can cause serious damage – from your personal data being stolen to your computer overheating and crashing. Therefore, the best way to ensure one’s safety is to take measures before anything happens.
Here are some ways you can protect your computer from spyware:
- Use reliable antivirus software. A trusted antivirus software, such as TotalAV, can improve your computer’s protection. It checks your downloads, blocks ads, eliminates malware, and schedules scans to ensure the system’s safe and secure running.
- Keep your software updated. Ensure you always have the latest updates on your computer, as software updates often include security patches that increase protection against malware.
- Install pop-up blocker. Malicious sites commonly have pop-up advertisements that carry spyware. Installing a pop-up blocker can help you avoid getting malicious programs.
- Reconsider getting “free” software. As good as it sounds, free software isn’t actually free most of the time, as the price it comes with is your personal data. Read the terms of use carefully and accept only if you agree with those terms.
- Use secure networks. Using public Wi-Fi often means connecting to unsecured networks. This makes it easy to beach your device. Connect to trusted networks only and avoid using free public Wi-Fi networks.
- Get a VPN. Another way to protect your computer from malware is using a VPN. It encrypts your data, adding an additional layer of security, and lets you enjoy a secure browsing experience. Using a VPN you can also use public Wi-Fi without having your data exposed to spyware.
FAQ
Is spyware difficult to remove?
The difficulty of spyware removal varies depending on the type. While some spyware is easier to remove, others can be quite challenging. It’s highly recommended to use antivirus and anti-malware programs, like TotalAV, on your computer, as they are designed to detect, isolate, and delete spyware.
Can spyware harm your computer?
Yes, spyware can cause serious harm to your computer. Some of the damage can cause operating system crashes, disable internet security software, or even cause your computer to overheat, resulting in permanent damage to the internal components of the device, causing data loss.
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