Sometimes it’s not just running your anti-virus program to get rid of a terrible virus such as a rootkit. What a rootkit does is hack its way through allowing itself to have master privileges on a computer. Then it disguises itself so that most antivirus software won’t be able to recognize it. Then, once it is disguised from the major anti-virus programs, it begins to download malware such as spyware and other types of viruses. Rootkits are usually only detected with a trained eye from a virus removal professional.
What are the symptoms of a rootkit?
- If you have a respected virus removal program installed and running and are still continuously running into spyware and viruses, this is the number one sign you have a rootkit.
- Your anti-virus program is not running or is missing altogether. It’s common practice for rootkits to kill anti-virus programs.
- You are connected to the internet but not able to view web pages. Rootkits like to change the proxy settings in your internet options so you can’t go online to view websites or download anti-virus programs.
- Your desktop background changes or is disabled every time your computer starts.
- Your computer seems like it’s running really slow even though you aren’t doing anything major
The spyware, rogueware and other malware programs are likely to be recognized and removed by an anti-virus program, which is good. The problem is catching it before it’s too late. Your sensitive information can be stolen by these programs. So if you are getting a lot of spyware on your computer over time, it might be that you have a rootkit. A very bad type of virus. Seek out a virus removal specialist and ask them about the possibility of a rootkit.
