How to Safeguard Your Photos After a Virus Attack

Recently, my husband accidentally introduced a troublesome virus to our computer by clicking a dubious link on a blog. The aftermath was chaotic: the computer struggled to reboot, and the desktop background changed unexpectedly. To add to our concern, we received a call from someone impersonating a Microsoft representative. This individual possessed the last four digits of our bank account and attempted to coerce my husband into signing in. Thankfully, he recognized the scam and hung up before any harm was done.

With the situation somewhat stabilized, I faced a pressing challenge. I have a significant collection of photos that I’ve been meaning to back up on a USB drive. Alas, procrastination has delayed this task. To address the malware issue, I managed to restore the system to a point from a week ago. While Windows Defender reported no threats, it’s worth noting that it had not raised any alarms during the initial attack either.

As we prepare to perform a factory reset, my main concern is the safety of my cherished photos. What is the risk that these images might carry the remnants of the virus? Additionally, are there other precautions I should consider to ensure we don’t inadvertently allow the malware to linger?

If you find yourself in a similar predicament, here are a few tips to help you navigate the situation:

1. Backup Photos Safely: Before transferring any files, try to scan your USB drive with reliable antivirus Software. It’s crucial to ensure that any transfer is done with a clean device.

2. Use a Different Device for Scanning: If possible, connect your USB to a different, unaffected computer to transfer and check your files. This minimizes the risk of spreading any potential malware.

3. Consider Using Alternative Recovery Tools: Some third-party recovery programs can help you restore files from a potentially infected system, provided you use them after confirming the system is clean.

4. Stay Vigilant Post-Reset: After completing a factory reset, ensure you reinstall essential security Software and keep it updated to protect against future threats.

5. Educate Yourself on Phishing Scams: The call we received highlights a common tactic used by scammers. Being aware can help prevent future incidents.

If you’ve gone through a similar experience, please share your insights and additional tips in the comments. Together, we can better equip ourselves against such digital threats.