How to Detect Malware

Monitor your computer for unusual behavior.

Your computer may be infected with malware if it:

• slows down, crashes, or displays repeated error messages

• won't shut down or restart

• serves a barrage of pop-ups

• serves inappropriate ads or ads that interfere with page content

• won’t let you remove unwanted software

• injects ads in places you typically wouldn’t see them, such as government websites

• displays web pages you didn't intend to visit, or sends emails you didn't write

Other warning signs of malware include:

• new and unexpected toolbars or icons in your browser or on your desktop

• unexpected changes in your browser, like using a new default search engine or displaying new tabs you didn’t open

• a sudden or repeated change in your computer's internet home page

• a laptop battery that drains more quickly than it should

source: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0011-malware