Google warns billions to follow ‘five clue’ rule – spot sign that hackers have infected your Android, iPhone, PC or Mac
GOOGLE users have been urged to check their devices for unwanted malware that can steal their data and money.
Malware is a malicious code or rile that can attack your device discreetly.
The software can infiltrate through several different methods and the outcome can prove disastrous.
For instance, it can steal sensitive information like your banking account credentials.
In more drastic cases, it can monitor and record your device's activity without your knowledge.
In the hopes of combating malware, Google has shared some important tips with users - including five signs that indicate infection.
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SIGNS OF MALWARE
You might have malware installed on your device if you experience pop-up ads and new tabs that won't go away.
Another sign is if your Chrome homepage or search engine keeps changing without your permission.
Seeing unwanted Chrome extensions is also an indication of malware.
If you notice your browsing is hijacked and redirects you to unfamiliar pages or ads, that's another surefire sign
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Lastly, Google distributes pop-up warnings if it detects malware, so alerts about a virus or an infected device are a huge sign.
If you have noticed any of these signs, you should take steps to secure your device right away.
HOW TO STAY SAFE
There are several things you can do to get your browser functioning as normal.
The first thing Google suggests is resetting your browser settings.
To do this on your computer, open Chrome, and at the top right, select More.
From there, tap on Settings, select Reset settings, and then tap on Restore settings to their original defaults.
Google Incognito Mode – how does it work?
Here's what you need to know...
- Incognito Mode is extremely useful, because it can stop your browser saving information about what you do online to your computer
- For instance, any websites you visit while in Incognito Mode won’t show up in your browsing history
- You also won’t store any new cookies linked to your own identity (read our cookies explainer here) – these are small computer files that let websites know if you’ve been on their page previously
- It also won’t save any site data – for instance, if you’re logged into a website, you’ll be logged out in incognito mode
- Or if you want to search for something on the internet, but don’t want websites to constantly serve you ads for that product in the future, Incognito Mode will prevent those sites from knowing you were interested in an item
Once you've done that, tap Reset settings and your browser tools should be back to default mode.
"If you reset your browser settings, you have to turn some extensions on," Google noted.
OTHER TIPS
For starters, it's important to always keep your device updated.
You should also avoid installing apps from unofficial Android stores.
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Furthermore, you should never download anything from strange pop-up windows.
It can also be helpful to read user reviews and keep Google's Play Protect feature active.