Navigating Post-Infection Computer Safety: Should You Use Your PC After a Hack?

Four months ago, I found myself in a distressing situation while gaming on my PC. Mid-game in Grand Theft Auto V, the system crashed unexpectedly. To my horror, I noticed Notepad opening on its own, displaying a threatening message that sent chills down my spine. It read:

“Hey there! You might have a virus. I’ve encrypted all your files. Send me $100 in Bitcoin or via Cash App to get them back. [Bitcoin address]”

From that moment, I was thrust into a nightmare scenario where I was coerced into interacting with the hacker via Notepad. Soon, he added me on Discord. Throughout our tense exchanges, I desperately sought alternative solutions, but he threatened dire consequences if I didn’t comply. Eventually, our conversation took a strange turn; he claimed he only wanted a Hulu account as a ransom, though I didn’t have one available.

Despite the threatening tone, the hacker’s Software seemed to malfunction, creating confusion on his end. He even blocked me on Discord after my friend attempted to confront him, stating he faced serious legal repercussions if he continued his actions. Fortunately, my PC seemed to function without issues, and I took the precaution of logging out of all my accounts to ensure my safety.

Now, I find myself grappling with a heavy decision: Is it safe to use my PC again? Part of me worries that the hacker may still have access to my system and could retaliate if prompted. On one hand, the computer appears unaffected, but on the other, the underlying fear of potential repercussions looms.

To Reset or Not to Reset?

Considering the disturbing incident and my concern about ongoing vulnerabilities, I am contemplating performing a factory reset on my PC. Here are a few things to keep in mind while making this decision:

1. Assess the Damage: If you suspect any malicious Software might linger on your system, a factory reset can often eliminate such issues, restoring your device to its original state.

2. Data Backup: Before proceeding, ensure you back up all essential files. Keep in mind that encrypted files will likely remain inaccessible, but maintaining any non-compromised data is critical.

3. Security Measures: After the reset, install a robust antivirus solution to protect against future threats. Keeping your system updated will also reinforce your defenses.

4. Change Passwords: Following a reset, change