How To It is possible to detect a remote access to my computer.
An active intrusion on your computer is one of the scariest things.If you believe that your computer is under the control of a hacker, the first thing you should do is stop using the internet.You can search for the entry point that the hacker used to access your system once you're safely disconnected.You can take steps to prevent future intrusions after your system has been locked down.
Step 1: Don't use the internet on your computer.
Don't connect the computer to the internet if you think someone is accessing it remotely.Turn off your wi-fi connections and remove any Ethernet cables.Some of the more obvious signs of intrusion include your mouse moving without your control, apps opening in front of your eyes, and files being deleted.Many apps that update automatically can generate pop-ups during the update process.Slow internet or unfamiliar programs are not the result of someone gaining remote access to your computer.
Step 2: You can check the list of recently accessed files.
It's easy to see a list of the last files you've accessed on both Windows PCs and Macs.Someone may have access to your computer if you see something you don't know.Press the + to open the File Explorer on Windows.The section called "Recent files" is at the bottom of the main panel.At the top of the Start menu is where you can view recently opened apps.The Apple menu is at the top left corner of the screen.You can click to see recently used apps, see files, and see a list of outgoing connections.
Step 3: The Task Manager or Activity Monitor can be opened.
You can use these utilities to find out what's running on your computer.Press + + on the Windows operating system.Double-click the folder to open it in Finder.
Step 4: Look for remote access programs in your running programs.
When Task Manager or Activity Monitor is open, check the list of currently running programs, as well as any programs that look unfamiliar or suspicious.Some popular remote access programs may have been installed without your permission.There are programs that seem suspicious or that you don't know about.If you don't know what a program is, you can perform a web search.
Step 5: Look for high usage of the computer's central processing unit.
This can be seen in the Task Manager or the Activity Monitor.While high CPU usage is not indicative of an attack, it could indicate that processes are running in the background, which you may have not authorized.It's a good idea to be aware that highCPU usage could be a program updating or a torrent download that you forgot about.
Step 6: Check your computer for infections.
The built-in scanning tools in Windows 10 can be used to check for rogue applications.If you're using a Mac, you can learn how to use Mac-based scanning tools.The easiest way for a hacker to get into your computer is with a piece of software.If you don't have an antivirus, you can download an installer on another computer and transfer it to your computer.Go to the website and install the software.A free, easy-to-use third-party anti-Malware is available for both PCs and Macs.You can get it for free from the website.
Step 7: Any items found should be kept out of sight.
quarantining any items that are detected during the scans will prevent them from affecting your system more.
Step 8: You can download and run the Anti-Rootkit.
You can get the program for free."Rootkits" are malicious programs that exist deep in your system files.It may take a while for the program to complete.
Step 9: Take care of your computer after you have removed any malicious software.
You will need to keep a close eye on your computer to make sure that the infection hasn't remained hidden after you have successfully removed it.
Step 10: All of your passwords should be changed.
It is possible that all of your passwords have been recorded with a keylogger if your computer was compromised.Passwords for all of your accounts should be changed if the infection is gone.You shouldn't use the same password for multiple services.
Step 11: Go and log out of everything.
Log off completely after changing your passwords.You need to log out of any device that is currently using the account.The new passwords will take effect and others will not be able to use the old ones.
Step 12: If you can't get rid of the intrusion, you should perform a full system wipe.
If you're still experiencing intrusions, or are concerned that you may still beinfecting, the only way to be sure is to completely wipe your system and reinstall your operating system.Everything will be deleted and reset after you back up any important data.Scan each file before backing up any data from aninfecting machine.There is a chance that an old file can be reintroduced.Instructions on how to wipe clean a computer and start over can be found here.
Step 13: Keep your software up-to-date.
Most attacks can be detected by an up-to-date program.Windows has a program called Windows Defender that works in the background and updates automatically.Several free programs are available, such as BitDefender, avast!, and AVG.You don't need more than one program.Windows Defender comes pre-installed on Windows computers.Instructions on turning on Windows Defender can be found here.If you don't want to use Defender, there are instructions on how to install an antivirus program.If you install another program, Windows Defender will stop working.
Step 14: Make sure your firewall is set up correctly.
There is no reason to have ports open if you are not running a web server or program that requires remote access.When the program isn't in use, UPnP will open the ports as necessary and then close them again.Your network will be open to intrusions if ports are kept open indefinitely.If you are running a server, make sure your ports are not open unless you need them.
Step 15: It is very important to be careful with email attachments.
Email attachments can be used to get onto your system.Make sure that the person intended to send you the attachment, and only open attachments from trusted senders.If one of your contacts has a virus, they may send out an attachment without knowing it.If you receive an email that asks for personal information, be careful.Phishing websites will often mimic sites you trust in order to get your sensitive information.
Step 16: Passwords need to be strong and unique.
Every service or program you use should have a unique and difficult password.This will prevent a hacker from using the password from one service to access another.For instructions on using a password manager, see Manage Your Passwords.
Step 17: It's a good idea to avoid public wi-fi spots.
You have no control over the network at public wi-fi spots.You don't know if someone else is using the spot to monitor traffic.They could gain access to your open browser session if they did this.If you are connected to a public wi-fi spot, you can use a virtual private network to protect your data.Instructions on setting up a connection to a virtual private network can be found in Configure a Virtual Private Network.
Step 18: Don't download programs online.
Many of the "free" programs you find online have extra software that you don't want.Make sure to decline any additional offers during the installation process.Downloads of unlicensed software are a common way for viruses to enter your system.