Signs to Confirm That Your Computer Was Hacked

New Zealand Computing Solutions
3 min readJul 11, 2022

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Paranoid of being hacked?

The paranoia about being hacked can stress out a lot of people. We don’t want our private information and files to fall into the wrong hands! It is not easy to detect whether your computer was hacked or not. In fact, most victims did not realize they were hacked until their bank sent them a notice concerning strange activity. Here are the signs to confirm that your computer was hacked:

Seeing Unwanted Browser Toolbars and Pop-up Ads

Are you seeing frequent pop-up ads that encourage you to visit a suspicious site or download software?

If you have noticed that those ads aren’t just annoying, but are also stubborn when you try to close them, it is a clear sign that those ads are bugs and not a typical feature on a website. The unwanted browser toolbars could redirect you to fake apps and websites, where hackers use to make money.

Your Contacts Receive Strange Messages from Your Email Account

If one of your contacts informs you that they received a strange message from you, immediately go to your Sent Folder to see what messages the hacker has sent. Since hackers have access to your account, they can use your account to fool your contacts into believing that the message they received really comes from you. Hackers can easily send messages requesting your loved ones to give their sensitive information such as financial details. Hackers can also trick your loved ones into installing fake software by asking them to download the attached file. Immediately inform your contacts to ignore the message.

Receiving Suspicious Login Alerts

Your computer may have been hacked if you suddenly discover that you are unable to access your account. Once the hacker gets access to your computer, it is easier for them to change your account information including your password. Be extra mindful and watch out for the online activities that the hacker has done/will possibly be doing. Consider using Multiple Factor Authentication (MFA) for an extra layer of security.

Your Cursor is Moving on its Own

If you see your cursor move or click on its own, this means someone else is controlling it — unless someone around you is using another bluetooth mouse. Your computer can be controlled by a hacker remotely. It’s like TeamViewer that lets you remote into other computers from anywhere in the world. The not-so-good difference is that hackers can do it without even your permission.

If you feel like someone else is controlling your computer remotely, you should immediately disconnect from your internet or LAN.

Unusual Slow Computer Performance

We all know that every computer tends to slow down as it gets older. However, if you notice unusual and sudden changes to its performance, investigate your computer as there could be someone else using it.

One main reason why your computer performance slows down is because hackers install software that runs in the background of your computer. If you notice that your computer continues to crash down and constantly reboot, this is a big chance that you’ve been hacked. With this issue, you should decide whether to repair or replace your computer’s network to prevent it from more damages.

(Also see: Sick of Crashing Apps? Here’s How to Fix Them)

If you experience all of these signs, this is to confirm that you have been hacked. Immediately inform your loved ones and bank to prevent unauthorized transactions. If needed, contact IT experts to help you fix your issues and to give you stronger security.

For any questions or concerns, message us and tell us your security issues. We’re always ready to help!

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New Zealand Computing Solutions

Expert Small to Medium Business Computer Consulting, IT Outsourcing, Software Development and Managed IT Services. https://nzcs.co.nz/