clicking on ads placed by scammers on websites you visit.

clicking links in fake security pop-ups sent to your computer by tech support scammers.

downloading files on removable storage like external hard drives or thumb drives.

downloading content available on file-sharing sites.

downloading free stuff like illegal downloads of popular movies, TV shows, or games.

Your device might get infected with malware through: Malware can get onto your device when you open or download attachments or files, or visit a scammy website. If you think someone may have stolen your information or identity, visit. They use this information to commit identity theft.

runs out of battery life more quickly than it shouldĬriminals work to get malware on your devices so they can steal personal information, like your usernames and passwords, bank account numbers, or Social Security number.

keeps changing your computer’s internet home page.

uses a new default search engine, or displays new tabs or websites you didn’t open.

shows new and unexpected toolbars or icons in your browser or on your desktop.

shows ads in places you typically wouldn’t see them, like government websites.

serves up lots of pop-ups, inappropriate ads, or ads that interfere with page content.

suddenly slows down, crashes, or displays repeated error messages.

Your device might have been infected with malware if it

Look for unusual behavior from your phone, tablet, or computer. Identity Theft and Online Security Show/hide Identity Theft and Online Security menu items.Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts Show/hide Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts menu items.Money-Making Opportunities and Investments.Jobs and Making Money Show/hide Jobs and Making Money menu items.Credit, Loans, and Debt Show/hide Credit, Loans, and Debt menu items.Shopping and Donating Show/hide Shopping and Donating menu items.

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