Device is infected and antivirus isn’t doing anything

Troubleshooting Persistent malware: A Personal Experience

In today’s digital landscape, malware infections pose a significant challenge for many users. Recently, I encountered a rather frustrating situation involving my computer’s security. After lending my hard drive to a friend, I started receiving alarming notifications from Windows Defender regarding potential threats. This situation quickly turned into a battle against unwanted malware.

To tackle the issue, I first attempted to run a scan using Malwarebytes, a trusted tool I often rely on. However, I quickly discovered that the malware had deleted it from my system—an unsettling revelation that highlighted the severity of the infection.

Determined to regain control, I sought another solution: Kaspersky Rescue Disk. This tool is designed to operate outside of the infected operating system, and upon running it, I was relieved to see it detect numerous viruses. Unfortunately, even after cleaning the system, the malware seemed to persist, reappearing each time I rebooted.

This experience has taught me several important lessons about tackling malware infections:

1. Regular Backups: Always maintain backups of critical data. This ensures that in case of severe infections, you can restore your files without losing valuable information.

2. Multiple Security Tools: Relying on a single antivirus solution may not be sufficient. It’s beneficial to have multiple layers of protection, including both real-time scanners and offline rescue tools.

3. Be Cautious with External Drives: Sharing drives with others can expose your system to risks. Always scan any external storage before connecting it to your primary device.

4. Stay Informed: Keeping abreast of the latest malware threats can help you respond more swiftly to infections. Awareness is a crucial step in prevention.

In conclusion, dealing with malware can be an exasperating experience, but it is manageable with the right tools and strategies. I hope sharing my experience provides some valuable insights for those facing similar challenges. Stay safe and vigilant online!