My system is attacked by Malvertising. What should I do?

Virus Protection

malvertising

If your system is already attacked by malvertising, follow these steps immediately to remove malware and secure your device:

🚨 Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

  • Turn off Wi-Fi or unplug the Ethernet cable to stop malware from spreading or stealing data.

🛑 Step 2: Close Malicious Ads or Pop-Ups

  • DO NOT click anywhere inside the pop-up or ad.
  • Force close the browser:
    • Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, find your browser, right-click → End Task.
    • Mac: Press Cmd + Option + Esc, select your browser, click Force Quit.

🧹 Step 3: Remove Suspicious Software

  • Windows:
    • Go to Control Panel → Programs & Features → Look for unknown apps → Uninstall.
  • Mac:
    • Open Finder → Applications → Drag unknown apps to Trash.

🛠 Step 4: Scan Your System for Malware

  • Use Windows Defender (built-in on Windows 10/11):
    • Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Security → Virus & Threat Protection → Quick Scan.
  • Use Malwarebytes (Free):

🧽 Step 5: Clear Browser Data & Reset Browser

  • Open your browser → Settings → Privacy & Security → Clear Browsing Data.
  • Reset browser settings (to remove hidden malware scripts).
    • Chrome: chrome://settings/reset → Restore settings to their original defaults.
    • Firefox: about:support → Refresh Firefox.

🛑 Step 6: Remove Suspicious Extensions

  • Chrome: chrome://extensions/ → Remove unknown extensions.
  • Firefox: about:addons → Remove suspicious add-ons.

🔄 Step 7: Update Your System & Software

  • Update Windows/Mac:
    • Windows: Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → Check for Updates
    • Mac: System Preferences → Software Update
  • Update Browsers & Security Software.

🔑 Step 8: Change Your Passwords (If Needed)

  • If you entered any passwords while infected, change them immediately.
  • Use a password manager like Bitwarden or LastPass to create strong passwords.

🛡 Step 9: Prevent Future Attacks

  • Use an ad blocker (like uBlock Origin).
  • Enable Safe Browsing in Chrome: chrome://settings/security → Turn on Enhanced Protection.
  • Avoid downloading software from untrusted websites.

🆘 Step 10: Seek Professional Help (If Needed)

  • If your system is still acting weird or showing pop-ups, you may need professional IT help or consider reinstalling Windows/macOS.

🔹 Following these steps should remove the malware and protect you from future malvertising attacks. Stay safe! 🚀