Accepted phone card and laptop sd card from unsecured source, now seeing “MSX MicroSD Mapper Wireless device” trying to pop up. Spyware is a possibility. Should I be concerned?

Evaluating Security Risks After Using Untrusted Hardware: What You Need to Know

Recently, I accepted a phone card and a microSD card from an unsecured source. Since then, I’ve noticed a new device appearing on my Windows 10 laptop: “MSX MicroSD Mapper Wireless device.” This has raised concerns about potential spyware or other malicious activity. I’m seeking guidance on how to assess and mitigate these security risks.

Understanding the Situation

• Hardware Involved: An untrusted phone card and microSD card
• Current Device: A Windows 10 laptop
• Observed Behavior: The appearance of “MSX MicroSD Mapper Wireless device” during device scans
• Additional Context: Unable to remove the SD card from the phone due to financial constraints preventing a personal phone plan

Potential Threats and Concerns

The appearance of an unfamiliar device may suggest cloned hardware or malicious software attempting to communicate with your system. If the device or software has been compromised, spyware or unauthorized data access could be possible. It’s crucial to evaluate the legitimacy of the device and understand your risk exposure.

Immediate Steps for Security

1. Disconnect from the Internet: To prevent any ongoing data transmission, turn off Wi-Fi and hotspot connections when not actively troubleshooting.

2. Avoid Running Unknown Files or Software: Since you’ve agreed to run unfamiliar programs, exercise caution. Malicious software can be disguised as legitimate files.

3. Scan for Malware: Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware tools to perform comprehensive scans on both your laptop and the phone if possible.

4. Identify Connected Devices: Check device manager and network connections to determine if there are unexpected devices or active connections.

Regarding VPN Usage

• Would a VPN help?
  A VPN primarily encrypts your internet traffic, helping to protect against eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks during online activity. While it does not eliminate malware or hardware-based threats, it adds a layer of security for data in transit.

• Where to use the VPN?
  For maximum security, consider running the VPN on both your laptop and your phone—especially since you’re using a hotspot. Using a VPN on your phone’s hotspot ensures all traffic from your laptop is encrypted, reducing risk if the device is compromised.

Long-Term Security Recommendations

• Limit Trust to Hardware and Data Sources: Avoid using unsecured or unknown hardware, especially when dealing with devices from untrusted sources.

• **