The Executive Suite: How to Fix a Hacked Computer

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

How to Fix a Hacked Computer

Hacking is a term used to describe a situation in which someone accesses files on your computer without your permission. If you suspect your computer has been hacked, it's likely that it was not fully protected. Unprotected computers allow hackers to gain control and ultimately take over the system. Hackers don't care who you are or where you're from. They just want access to your computer and files.

Operating system installation disk

Instructions

Determine whether your computer was hacked. Signs of a hacked computer include, but are not limited to, a suddenly slow processor, changed settings, a decrease in Internet access speed, Internet activity when you have not used the Internet or problems with many tasks and processes that run on your computer.
Complete a clean installation. Install your operating system again. Disconnect all cameras, printers, scanners, tablets and any other hardware (not including your keyboard and mouse). Disconnect your computer from the Internet. Follow the instructions that came with your manual to complete a clean installation.
Follow all instructions on your computer's security center to keep your computer up to date. Install all updates for your computer when they become available. Enable automatic updates, if possible.
Download and install a firewall, anti-virus program and anti-spyware and anti-malware programs before connecting to the Internet again.
Change all passwords on your computer, including passwords used to access websites on the Internet. Be sure that guest accounts are disabled. Disable file sharing so that hackers cannot access files.