Symptoms of an Infected Computer

Audience: Faculty, Staff, Students and Teaching Assistants

This KB Article References: Symantec Endpoint Protection Antivirus
This Information is Intended for: Faculty, Staff, Students, Teaching Assistants
Last Updated: December 12, 2023
Average Rating: Not Rated
Your feedback is important to us, help us by logging in to rate this article and provide feedback.

All malicious programs are covered under the umbrella term malware - adware, ransomware, rootkits, spyware, trojans, worms,  and viruses - all are considered malware. It is important that you regularly check your computer for malware, as a malware infection puts your personal data at risk. Keep all system software up to date to reduce the risk of infection.

Symptoms of Malware

  • Your computer or web browser has dramatically slowed down over a period of a few days/a week

  • Frequent freezing or crashing

  • Modified or deleted files

  • New programs or desktop icons that you do not recall installing/creating

  • Programs running without your consent

  • Programs closing without your consent

  • Changes in your security settings

  • Unusual emails/social media messages being sent without your permission to a large audience

  • Pop-up advertisements:  Most browsers suppress these by default so if you are getting them, something has changed those settings (or you have otherwise explicitly allowed pop-ups)

  • Your default search engine has been changed without you altering it

  • New toolbars in the web browser

  • Browser links redirect to the wrong web page

What’s the Next Step?

You should run an antivirus scan immediately. If you’re looking for an antivirus program, Stony Brook provides a free subscription to Symantec. If antivirus doesn’t solve the problem, contact Customer Engagement & Support.

For More Info

Check out Google’s article/video on keeping your devices secure.

 

Additional Information


There are no additional resources available for this article.

Provide Feedback


Your feedback is important to us, help us by logging in to rate this article and provide feedback.

Sign in with NetID

Getting Help


The Division of Information Technology provides support on all of our services. If you require assistance please submit a support ticket through the IT Service Management system.

Submit A Quick Ticket

For More Information Contact


Customer Engagement and Support