I think I installed a virus and I don’t know what to do

How to Respond When You Suspect Malware Infection After Installing Game Mods

Gaming enthusiasts often customize their experience by installing modifications (mods), especially for popular titles like Assetto Corsa. However, sometimes these mods can inadvertently introduce security risks, including malware. If you suspect that your computer might be compromised after installing mods, it’s crucial to act swiftly and methodically to protect your system and personal data.

In this article, we’ll explore the signs of potential malware infections, the risks involved, and recommended steps to resolve these issues effectively.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Potential Malware Infection

If your system exhibits any of the following, it could indicate a malware infection:

• System instability or crashes: Frequent crashes or unresponsiveness when launching or playing games.
• Unexpected error messages: Pop-ups such as “Microsoft Phone Link has stopped working” or system errors related to processes like TextInputHost.exe.
• Suspicious system behavior: Repeated prompts, unusual command prompt windows appearing unexpectedly, or other abnormal activities.
• Antivirus or anti-malware alerts: Detection flags from tools like Malwarebytes or Windows Defender.

In the scenario described, the user encounters frequent system crashes after mod installation, accompanied by specific error messages indicating system file issues and possible malware threats.

Immediate Steps to Take If You Suspect Infection

1. Disconnect from the Internet:

2. To prevent potential data transmission or malware spread, disconnect your computer from the internet immediately.

3. Boot into Safe Mode:

4. Restart your computer in Safe Mode. On Windows, this typically involves pressing F8 or Shift + Restart from the login screen, then selecting “Safe Mode.”

5. Run a Reputable Malware Scanner:

6. Use trusted tools like Malwarebytes, Windows Defender, or other reputable antivirus solutions. Run full system scans to identify and quarantine threats.

7. Check for Unfamiliar Processes:

8. Use Task Manager or Process Explorer to review running processes. Be cautious of unfamiliar or suspicious processes.

9. Review Installed Programs and Extensions:

10. Remove any unfamiliar or unauthorized programs, especially those related to recent mods or downloads.

If Basic Malware Scanning Is Ineffective

In some cases, malware can hide or persist despite initial scans. Consider the following advanced measures:

• Use Boot-Time Scanning Tools:
  Many antivirus vendors offer boot-time scans, which can detect deeply embedded malware before the