Detecting spyware: How to protect your devices

To detect spyware, watch out for typical symptoms such as slowed performance, unusual pop-ups and unknown processes, and use security software for scans.

Signs – How to detect spyware on your device

Spyware, also known as spying software, is a serious threat to the security of your devices and personal data. It often installs without being noticed and collects information such as passwords, bank details or even your private photos and messages. Typical symptoms and signs of spyware infection:

• Slow performance: Your computer or smartphone suddenly slows down for no apparent reason.

• Unusual pop-ups: You notice ads or notifications you haven’t seen before.

• High data usage: Your internet usage is increasing, even though you have not made any changes to your usage behavior.

• Unknown apps or processes: In the list of installed programs or running processes, you will find entries that you are not familiar with.

• Battery draining: Your device is draining faster than usual because spyware is often active in the background.

• Abnormal behavior: Files are missing or changes are being made to settings that you did not make yourself.

Step-by-step guide – Removing spyware from your computer

If you suspect that your device has been infected with spyware, you can remove it by following these steps:

• Disconnect your device from the internet: Disconnect to prevent further data from being sent to the attackers.

• Use antivirus and anti-spyware tools: well-known providers include Malwarebytes, McAfee or Norton AntiVirus. Run a full scan and follow the software’s instructions to remove malicious programs.

• Check installed programs: Remove any apps or programs that are unfamiliar or suspicious.

• Check network usage: Use the built-in features of your operating system or specialized tools to monitor data usage per app.

• Delete temporary files: Use tools like the Windows Disk Cleanup Wizard or CCleaner to delete temporary files and browser caches.

• Factory reset your device: If the virus cannot be removed, factory reset your device.

Preventive measures – How to protect yourself against spyware

Prevention is the best strategy for protecting your devices against spyware. With a few simple measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to spyware.

• Keep your software up to date: Regular updates close security gaps that could be exploited by spyware.

• Only install trusted apps: Only download apps from official sources such as the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

• Use security software: Good antivirus or anti-malware software can detect many threats early on.

• Be careful with emails and links: Do not open any unknown attachments or click on suspicious links that you receive by email or message.

• Security-conscious passwords: Use unique and strong passwords for each application and change them regularly.

• Activate two-factor authentication (2FA): This additional protection makes it more difficult for cybercriminals to gain access to your accounts.

• Update your operating system and software regularly to avoid security vulnerabilities. Only surf trusted websites and be careful when entering personal data.

• Security tools such as anti-spyware software, VPN services or entire security software packages can significantly improve your online security and effectively protect you from spyware.