Monitoring someone’s device without permission is a violation of privacy. It also poses numerous security threats to users’ data and digital assets. Therefore, you should check and protect your computer from this risk.
How to know if your PC or laptop is being monitored? A monitored device will put your personal data and information at risk. It also violates your privacy and makes you feel uncomfortable.
Here are some ways and signs to check if your device is being monitored. I will also list all the effective methods to help protect your privacy. They are super simple, even for non-technical users.
1. Your Computer Becomes Slow
Malicious software tends to affect your computer speed. They will consume a lot of resources of your CPU and Ram. This malware can copy your files and send them to other sources.
Therefore, you should be alert when your device suddenly becomes slow. For example, you can pay attention to how long it takes to start.
You can open the task manager window. Press Alt + Ctrl + Esc to bring up this window. It displays the programs that are consuming your computer’s resources.
2. Your Webcam Turns On Without Permission
Hackers can take advantage of your webcam to record your image. They can install spyware on your system. This software can access the microphone and webcam of your device.
Then, they will use the recorded personal images. The safest solution is to block the webcam physically. You can cover your come with a small piece of tape.
3. Perform Antivirus Scans
You don’t need any premium antivirus software for this task. Simply access the start menu and choose the search bar. Then, type “threat protection” to open the virus protection window.
Select the Quick Scan button to perform an extensive scan on your computer. It will scan all your files and software to detect any possible threats. If there’s a suspicious file, you should check and remove it immediately.
4. Investigating Recent Files
Access your PC from the taskbar or desktop icon. Then, click on “frequent folders and files.” This session will display the history if someone checked your files recently.
It will display a list of the recently opened folders. Pay attention to folders that you rarely access in the last few weeks.
5. Investigating Browser History
On your browser, open Ctrl + H to access your browsing history. Check if there is any site that you never access. It will help you check if someone is using your browser remotely.
Check the bookmark and toolbar regularly. Ensure that there is no strange spyware or links that you didn’t access.
It’s advisable to delete your browsing history once in a while. It will prevent hackers from tracking your online activities. Also, be careful when your browser automatically redirects without your permission.
6. Auditing Login Event Viewer
The login event sections can help you check if someone logged in to your device remotely. Type “Windows Administrative Tools” on the search bar and choose “event viewer.”
Then, select the Window logs section on the left side. Double-click on the security button, and it will display all security events.
7. You Noticed Changes In Systems And Weird Programs
The tools of hackers are spyware and viruses. They trick users into downloading this malware. Then, they will monitor your device and access all documents.
So, check all the tools and programs installed on your computer. Delete the tools that you don’t use or didn’t install. Also, review your computer settings carefully.
Pay attention to the aspects like firewall protection or security settings. Adjust the settings to increase your computer privacy if necessary.
8. You Receive A Blackmail Or Attack Message
Have you received any blackmail emails or ransomware threats recently? It’s the most apparent sign that someone has monitored and stolen your information.
Hackers can encrypt all your folders and deny your access. Then, they will request a sum of money to unlock your files. The worst thing you can do is to panic and send money to hackers.
Instead, you should contact the authorities to report the case. You can provide extensive details and proofs so the authority can get your file recovered.
What Should You Do If Your Computer Is Being Monitored?
Don’t underestimate what hackers and malware can do to your device. You should act immediately after finding out that your computer is being monitored.
First, try removing all the strange programs and files that exist on your system. Then, perform security protocols and antivirus scans many times. Ensure that your device is completely clean of malware and viruses.
Then, copy all your files into a backup source. It ensures that no one can steal your data and blackmail you. Also, change your computer and Wifi passwords with more complex ones.
Pay attention to your bank accounts and social media accounts. Ensure that you have changed the passwords of all these sources. You can also try updating your Windows and investing in premium virus protection software.
After all those steps, check your emails for any blackmails. Hackers can also call you to request money. If it’s the case, call the authority and reliable tech-support services for help.
How Can An Attacker Gain Access To Your System?
The most common tool of hackers is viruses or malware. They may send you fake emails with URLs that contain viruses. Once you access the link, the hackers can transmit the virus to your computer.
Another method is using fake identities. The hackers may claim themselves as tech supporters. They will help deal with the virus infected onto your computer.
Then, they will ask for access to your computer to fix the problems. Most of the cases, they will take control of your device and steal your personal data.
They can also take advantage of your network. Don’t use weak passwords for your Wifi. They can hack into your network and monitor your online activities.
Final Thoughts
Having your device monitored is a nightmare for any computer user. It makes you feel extremely uncomfortable and threatens your privacy.
Therefore, you should act quickly to counter this problem. You should perform all security methods to protect your computer immediately. Also, you can install privacy tools to increase your device’s security.
Thank you for reading!