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Infected Laptops Running Slow? Be Aware of Christmas Scams!

As the festive season approaches, our laptops become indispensable tools for holiday shopping and staying connected with loved ones. However, cybercriminals are also anticipating this busy time to exploit unsuspecting users with Christmas scams. If your laptop is running slower than usual, it might not just be holiday cheer slowing it down – it could be infected. In this article, we’ll explore how to identify if your laptop is infected, common Christmas scams, and steps to protect your devices.

Recognizing the Symptoms of an Infected Laptop

Decreased Speed

One of the most noticeable signs of an infected laptop is a significant decrease in speed. If your usual browsing or app-launching takes a longer time, malware could be the culprit.

Unexpected Pop-ups

Frequent and random pop-ups can indicate adware presence or other malicious software trying to gain your attention.

Random Crashes and Unauthorized Access

Experiencing unexpected system crashes or finding unfamiliar applications and files on your laptop signifies a possible compromise.

Common Christmas Scams to Watch Out For

Phishing Emails

These scams are designed to mimic legitimate emails from retailers, banks, or delivery services and often include malicious links or attachments.

Fake Shopping Websites

The lure of massive discounts might lead you to fake retail sites designed to steal your payment information.

Gift Card Scams

Watch out for unsolicited messages claiming you’ve won or offering significant discounts on gift cards.

Charity Scams

Ensure your generous donations go to legitimate organizations by verifying the charity’s authenticity yourself.

Protecting Your Devices During the Holidays

Install and Update Antivirus Software

Ensure your laptop has a reliable antivirus program installed and keep it updated to combat the latest threats.

Conduct Regular Scans

Run regular system scans to detect and eliminate malicious software before it causes harm.

Verify Before Clicking

Always hover over links to verify their legitimacy and only click on those from trusted sources.

Use Strong Passwords and Secure Networks

Implement complex passwords and avoid using public Wi-Fi networks; a VPN is advisable if you need to connect on-the-go.

Conclusion

The holiday period should be one of joy, not stress from cyber threats. By recognizing the signs of an infected laptop and staying aware of seasonal scams, you can protect your devices and enjoy a secure and happy holiday season online.