A Disturbing Encounter: When My Computer Was Compromised

Recently, I had an unsettling experience that left me both shaken and vigilant about my online security. Fresh from a shower, I returned to my computer to find my browser inexplicably opening on its own. Before I could comprehend what was happening, I noticed my browser’s address bar had been hijacked, as someone typed the word “bitch.” This was just the beginning; they began rummaging through my folders until they reached my cryptocurrency bookmarks, specifically those linked to Coinbase and Binance.

Despite my immediate reaction—hitting Alt+F4 repeatedly—nothing seemed to respond. Frantically, I attempted to close the browser with my mouse, but it was as if my computer had frozen. In a panic, I was forced to power down my machine completely.

Feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next, I turned to online communities for guidance. The support and advice I received helped me take several crucial steps in securing my digital life. I promptly changed all my passwords, backed up my data, and performed a clean installation of my operating system. Additionally, I configured my LastPass settings to require a password every time I launched my browser and began utilizing token and authenticator apps for two-factor authentication.

To clarify, I do not store any cryptocurrencies directly on my computer; the folders that were accessed merely contained bookmarks. The intruder seemed intent on scrolling through these links, and the puzzling moment was when they typed “bitch,” deleted it, and then proceeded to explore my bookmarks. I opted not to reinstall TeamViewer, as many suggested it might have posed the risk of vulnerability. Interestingly, my background did not turn black as it typically would when a remote session is initiated, and I was completely unable to control my mouse or keyboard during the incident.

On a separate note, I have a tech-savvy friend who belongs to a group known for their hacking skills. We have a long-standing friendship based on trust, and he has a penchant for defending those close to him against online threats. With that kind of support, I feel more reassured about navigating this digital landscape.

In conclusion, this experience served as a sobering reminder of the importance of cybersecurity. It’s crucial to be proactive and take steps to protect yourself online. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, remember to seek support, act quickly, and always prioritize your security measures.