This Information is Intended for: Faculty, Staff, Students, Teaching Assistants
Last Updated: August 11, 2020
Average Rating: Not Rated
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
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Your computer or web browser has dramatically slowed down over a period of a few days/a week
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Frequent freezing or crashing
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Modified or deleted files
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New programs or desktop icons that you do not recall installing/creating
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Programs running without your consent
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Programs closing without your consent
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Changes in your security settings
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Unusual emails/social media messages being sent without your permission to a large audience
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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)
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Your default search engine has been changed without you altering it
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New toolbars in the web browser
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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.