My laptop has definitely been hacked. What should I do???

Has My Laptop Been Hacked? Here’s What to Do Next

It’s a troubling realization when you suspect that your laptop may have been compromised. For those who aren’t particularly tech-savvy, understanding how to respond can be a daunting task. If you find yourself in a situation similar to the one described below, here’s a guide to help you navigate the problem.

Signs of a Potential Hack

Recently, a user expressed their concerns about unusual activity on their laptop, which could indicate hacking. They reported several strange occurrences:
– The cursor moving without input, seemingly trying to open websites like Amazon or PayPal when the device was idle.
– Unexpected sign-outs from their Amazon account, requiring frequent password changes.
– Alerts from PayPal suggesting unusual activity.
– A recently hacked email account that had been active for a decade, resulting in a password change.

These are all red flags that point to possible unauthorized access to your computer and accounts.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disconnect from the Internet: The first step is to sever your connection to the internet. This helps prevent further unauthorized access while you assess the situation.
Change Passwords: Start by changing the passwords for sensitive accounts, including your email, banking, and any other platforms where sensitive information is stored. Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: For added security, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts that offer it. This adds an extra layer of protection, usually requiring a second verification step when logging in.
Check for Unfamiliar Software: Look through your installed programs and applications for anything you don’t recognize. Remove any suspicious Software.
Install Antivirus Software: While you may not have the budget for premium Software, there are free antivirus programs available that can help detect and remove malware. Consider options like Avast or Bitdefender.
Update Your Operating System and Software: Ensure that your operating system and all installed Software are up to date. Regular updates often include security patches that protect against vulnerabilities.
Run a Full System Scan: Use the antivirus software you’ve installed to perform a complete scan of your system for malware or other unwanted programs.
Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your financial accounts for any unauthorized transactions and stay vigilant for any further suspicious activity.