How to tell if your computer has Malware

Summary

Here are some symptoms that could indicate a malware infection.

Environment

Windows, MacOS

Solution

It is important to be able to distinguish when a device is or isn't infected. Some signs of an infected device may include:

  • Installed programs or additional software that you don't recognize
  • Default homepages, new tab pages, or extensions in web browsers being changed or added
  • Unexpected pop-ups occurring on the desktop or in web browsers
  • Changed system settings such as added Profiles (MacOS) and network settings (DNS or proxy settings)
  • General slowness or unresponsiveness*
  • Some web-pages refusing to connect or load*

 NOTE: Signs such as general unresponsiveness or trouble loading web-pages are not necessarily indicative of a virus on their own.  

For assistance, please contact the IT Support Center at 804-828-2227 or itsc@vcu.edu.

 

Solution Properties

Keywords
malware virus ransomware anti-virus antivirus
Solution ID
250312201537900
Last Modified Date
07/17/2025 04:33:39 PM
Taxonomy
  • IT Operations > IT Support Channels
  • Software > Windows
  • Software > MacOS
Collections
  • VCU (Public)
  • Technology Services (Auth)
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