When you suspect a compromise of your computer or network, the initial reaction may be to panic. However, your actions following the discovery of a potential breach are crucial in determining whether it becomes a manageable issue or a severe crisis that could result in significant financial and legal consequences.
In this article, we tap into the expertise of our cybersecurity experts to highlight common signs of a compromised system and the urgent steps you should take to mitigate as much damage as possible.
Recognizing a Compromised System
According to a recent IBM cybersecurity report, it typically takes 277 days to detect and report a data breach. This timeframe is particularly concerning given the speed at which malware, viruses, and keyloggers can cause damage. Unfortunately, many users do not notice the signs of an attack until it's too late and significant damage has occurred.
Look out for these indicators that your system may be compromised:
- Decreased performance of your computer or network
- Regular freezes or unexpected crashes
- Unwanted pop-up advertisements
- Accounts being locked out
- Unplanned changes to your files
- The computer continuing to operate after attempting to shut it down
- Odd activities on your accounts
