Here’s what it looks like when a virus takes over your computer

A slow computer can turn you into a detective. You start investigating the clues, trying to find out what happened. You might even Google “How to tell if you have a virus” or “Warning signs your computer is infected.”

A Google search can easily send you down a rabbit hole, though. That’s why we took the time to write a helpful guide you can use to solve the mystery. There are a few obvious signs, like a parade of popups whenever you open your laptop.

But you should also know the more subtle signs of a virus. Not all infections are in your face — some lurk on your system for a while before taking over. Here are some surefire signs your computer is infected with a virus.

1. It’s hot to the touch

When you accidentally download malware, your computer’s internal components start working overtime to handle it. They’re not supposed to work that hard.

The fans are hustling to cool down the system, and eventually, they might wear out. Once they go kaput, your inner circuitry might even melt. Tap or click here to see how to keep your gadgets cool.

Speaking of which, watch out for strange sounds

Your computer may try to warn you that something is wrong. Although some types of malware can hide warning messages, they can’t overpower the sound itself. If it sounds like phantoms are moaning or bells are ringing, take that as a warning sign.

2. It keeps crashing

Desktop apps that previously worked wonders suddenly stopped working. It might be an issue with the developer, so check out official sources for news of any problems.

You might find out your software and hardware aren’t compatible, which may cause technical issues. If no other customers complain, the problem may lie within your system.

You should be especially worried if you can’t open your antivirus program. Dangerous malware like ransomware digs its claws into your favorite files, stopping you from opening them. Even if you aren’t dealing with ransomware, you may have a nasty virus overtake your system.

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Smart trick to get all the perks of an Echo Show for less money

Everyone loves their Amazon Echo Show. Regardless of generation, you can access all your smart gadgets, listen to your favorite podcasts and music, get the local weather forecast and use tons of Alexa-friendly apps.

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Do these old-timey life hacks actually work?

When you think of life hacks, what comes to mind? Most likely it’s those viral videos that claim your life will be perfect if you just follow this one easy step! But the truth is people have been spreading these “life hacks” for hundreds of years. Here are 29 of the strangest ones throughout history.

Louisiana's new law against online porn

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Simple ways to hide your risque or otherwise personal photos

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Got a Eufy security cam? It may be sending your private videos to the cloud — without permission. Plus, stalkers are using Amazon Alexas to terrorize victims, five holiday scams to watch out for and where to stream your favorite Christmas movies. Also, Elon Musk reveals how Twitter suppressed the Hunter Biden laptop story. Here’s all you need to know.

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Wait until January to buy TVs, workout gear, winter clothes and home goods. Here’s why. Plus, TikTok live streams are getting out of control, best Christmas gifts under $50, cheapest family plans, be careful getting your phone or computer repaired and a new way to recognize fake images and videos.

Most useful YouTube keyboard shortcuts

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Want to save time when you look for videos to watch on YouTube? Listen now for a few easy tricks that will help you find the videos you want.

Can you trust YouTube's new labels?

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Ever miss a great photo opportunity because it took you too long to open your phone’s camera app? Listen to this one-minute podcast for a quick solution.

Police seizures, new Netflix fees, Instagram shopping maps

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Do you have a Ring video doorbell? Police in San Francisco could soon seize your videos — without your permission. It all depends on THIS. Plus, a revolution is hitting the online dating world, Netflix will smack you with sharing fees and Instagram can help you find nearby shops and hotels. I’ve also got a few Google and photo tricks to change your digital life forever.

San Francisco and your Ring camera

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Should police be able to seize videos from your Ring doorbell? San Francisco’s new DA seems to think so. Here’s my take, in 60 seconds.

TV tracking, flying cars, buy cheap mystery boxes

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Love mystery boxes? Here’s how to buy unclaimed USPS and Amazon packages. Plus, your TV is watching you and Facebook listens to your conversations. In this episode, you’ll learn how to instantly get more storage space on your phone. Allow, follow these steps to record videos in emergency situations.

No more passwords, find hidden trackers, Theranos merch

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Want to sell a water bottle for $1,500? Slap a Theranos label on it. This merch is all the rage on eBay — here’s why. Plus, Big Tech predicts a future without passwords and TikTok videos show what it’s like to live with dementia. I’ll tell you how to find hidden trackers and turn an old PC into a home media server. Also, these mental health apps can compromise your privacy.

Skip ads on YouTube

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Are you sick and tired of seeing ads when you watch YouTube videos? Listen to this one-minute podcast for a few ways to skip them.

6 signs your phone has been hacked

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Are you worried that someone is tracking where you are and what you do? Listen to this one-minute podcast to find out if someone’s rifling through your texts, photos and videos.

Who gets access to your online data when you die?

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When you die, who gets access to your cloud data? Listen to this one-minute podcast to learn how one feature sends your photos and videos to a trusted contact after you’re gone.

Digital Life Hack: Simple ways to hide your risque or otherwise personal photos

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Want to keep the photos and videos you took on your smartphone private? Listen now for an easy way to keep your creations private.

A years-old murder video is still up on Facebook

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How can graphic, violent videos stay up on Facebook? Listen now for the story of one video it refuses to take down.