My niece clicked on an unsafe link on my mom’s computer and it downloaded something – what should I do?

What to Do When a Potentially Unsafe Download Occurs on Your Computer

Recently, a concerning incident unfolded when my niece inadvertently downloaded a file on my mom’s laptop after clicking on an unsafe link during her unmonitored web browsing. While I was not present at the time to supervise, this situation raised questions about internet safety and the steps to take when encountering similar circumstances.

The Incident

My mom allowed her 13-year-old granddaughter to explore her laptop freely, which, in hindsight, was not the best decision. My niece was eager to find a movie unavailable on streaming platforms like Netflix and opted to visit a website promising free online movie viewing. Unfortunately, this led to the immediate download of an application called ‘Opera GX.’ Recognizing the potential issue, my niece promptly informed my mom, who decided to refrain from using the laptop until I could take a look.

Steps Taken

When I arrived approximately 20 minutes later, I quickly deleted the ‘Opera GX’ file from the Downloads folder. Understanding the importance of thorough checks, I initiated a security scan using Windows Security. To ensure an added layer of protection, I also installed Malwarebytes, which I use regularly on my own computer, and conducted a secondary scan.

The results were reassuring—no threats were detected.

Is the Laptop Safe Now?

While the immediate scans showed no threats, it’s crucial to remain vigilant after a potential security breach. Here are a few additional steps to ensure your laptop remains secure:

1. Check Installed Programs: Inspect the list of installed applications to see if any unfamiliar or unwanted programs were added during the incident. If you find anything suspicious, consider removing it.

2. Update Software: Ensure that the operating system and all installed applications are up to date. Security patches frequently address vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malware.

3. Change Passwords: If the laptop has sensitive information or is used for banking, it might be a good idea to change passwords, particularly for any accounts accessed while using the laptop.

4. Educate on Safe Browsing: It’s essential to have a discussion with both your niece and mom about safe internet practices. Encourage them to avoid questionable sites and to be cautious about the links they click.

5. Consider a Full System Scan: If you have any lingering concerns about security, doing a full system scan with a reputable antivirus tool is prudent. This step can help identify any threats that may not be detected during routine scans