11 sure signs you've been hacked

The article says antimalware tools miss plenty of attacks, especially new ones, so users should watch for system behavior that points to compromise. It recommends a full restore as the safest response, because a compromised computer cannot be fully trusted again.

Reading notes

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• Fake antivirus warnings usually appear after the system has already been exploited, often through unpatched software.
• Unwanted browser toolbars, redirected searches, and frequent random pop-ups are common signs of malicious software.
• If friends receive fake email from your account, the article says it may still be worth scanning the computer and checking for unwanted software.
• Sudden password changes often mean an account was phished, so contacts should be notified and the service should be contacted.
• Unexpected software installs can come from other programs or from malware that installs itself like a legitimate program.
• If the mouse moves on its own and makes correct selections, the article treats that as a serious compromise and advises calling professionals.
• Disabled antimalware software, Task Manager, or Registry Editor is described as a strong sign of malicious compromise.
• Missing bank money and calls from stores about unpaid shipped goods are treated as high-impact fraud cases that require law enforcement and credit monitoring.
• The article says most malicious hacking starts from unpatched software, Trojan horse programs, or fake phishing emails.