Title: How to Respond When Your Computer Shows Suspicious Activity: A Guide for Non-Technical Users
In today’s digital age, encountering unsolicited pop-ups or unusual notifications on your computer can be unsettling. If a family member reports seeing a suspicious message or alert, it’s natural to feel unsure about the next steps, especially if you’re not highly tech-savvy. This article provides practical advice on how to handle such situations responsibly and effectively.
Understanding the Situation
Recently, a user shared a common concern: their father received an unexpected alert on his desktop, suggesting a potential virus infection. The user advised his father not to click on the pop-up and to run Windows Defender, the built-in antivirus solution for Windows computers. However, during the scan, Windows Defender appeared to hang at “8925 files scanned,” which can be confusing and worrying for users unfamiliar with system processes.
What Should You Do?
- Stay Calm and Avoid Clicking Suspicious Pop-Ups
If you encounter an unexpected message or pop-up, resist the urge to click on links or buttons within it. Scammers often use fake alerts to trick users into installing malware or providing personal information.
- Document the Issue
Take a clear screenshot of any error messages or suspicious screens. If you’re unable to capture a screenshot directly, a photo with your phone, as some users do, is a helpful alternative.
- Run a Complete Antivirus Scan
Use trusted security software—like Windows Defender, Norton, McAfee, or others—to perform a comprehensive system scan. If Windows Defender gets stuck or appears unresponsive, consider restarting your computer and attempting the scan again.
- Check the Scan Progress
It’s not uncommon for antivirus scans to take varying amounts of time depending on system size and files. If the scan seems frozen (e.g., stuck at “8925 files scanned” for an extended period), you can try stopping it and restarting your computer before running the scan again.
- Update Your Security Software
Ensure your antivirus definitions are up to date. Outdated definitions can cause scans to hang or miss threats.
- Seek Professional Help
If the scan detects threats or if you’re uncertain about the results, consult with a professional technician. Don’t attempt to fix complex issues yourself unless you’re confident in your technical skills.
- Practice Safe Computing Habits
Avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or downloading attachments from untrusted sources. Regularly update
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