Category - Internet
Topic - Computer Security
Issue - Suspicious activity affecting your computer files
Tiptoid -
The other day I logged on my computer and went to check my files, but I noticed that some of the items looked different from the way I had last left them. For one thing, a file was missing!!!
I was concerned, so I asked my Multimedia Productions teacher and she gave me some suggestions on how to detect and deal with suspicious activity on computers.
Here is a short checklist.
• Are any of your files missing or corrupted?
• Are your Antivirus software or Firewall not working?
• Do pop-up boxes/windows appear with unusual content?
• Are your computer components acting up? (e.g. CD tray opening/closing, monitor flashing, reversed mouse activity)
• Are you experiencing frequent massive slow downs while online?
If any of these suspicious activities are happening to you, you should -
1. Lock your computer from the Internet and any other networks.
2. Utilize Run to check the registry for false entries.
3. If all else fails, reformat your computer.
I followed this advice and I discovered, to my dismay, that a hacker had been messing with my files and copying them. I reformatted my computer so he/she could not access my files any more.
If this could happen to me, it could happen to you. So stay alert, and take immediate action if you detect suspicious activity on your computer.
Glossary -
file - acts as storage for computer data
antivirus - software that checks your computer for any viruses
hacker - a person able to gain unauthorized access to your computer
Find Out More - contact your IP (Internet Provider)
Submitted by - Dennis Nolasco
Site Manager - Andrew An
May 2006