Over time, your computer eventually starts to slow down. As you open and use different programs, it may seem to act strange. Oftentimes, though, a slow computer or an odd behavior can be an obvious sign of a terrible malware attack.
Today, a new variant of malware is making the rounds. It’s called the Houdini malware.
What Is the Houdini Malware?
According to reports, the Houdini malware targets victims with keylogger and online bank account theft tools. Combined with new phishing techniques, this malware will try to install itself and retrieve bank account details through keylogging.
Interestingly, the Houdini malware is not new. In fact, it’s considered a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) malware entity that allows hackers to control and monitor your network.
A target usually receives an email claiming to be from their bank. The email comes with a set of instructions that aim to lure the target into clicking a link to complete a financial transaction. As soon as the link is clicked, a type of malware is downloaded to the computer.
Once the malware has infiltrated the target’s system, it will try to steal bank login information. It will then be sent back to the attacker, who, in turn, will use the login information for fraudulent activities and purchases.
What Can Malware Do to Your Computer?
The Houdini malware is usually acquired via email. So, you can easily avoid it by not clicking on any suspicious links being sent to you. But what about the other types of malware?
While you can’t tell where they come from, their effects are visible right away. Here are some harmful effects of a malware attack:
1. It Records the Information That You Type.
There are certain types of malware that record the information you type on your screen. They are considered major security threats as it will seem like you are already giving away all the information the malware wants.
2. It Slows Down Your Computer.
The Houdini malware, like other malware types, runs in the background. While all other apps will work just fine, the malware will slowly overpower them without you knowing. You will only notice the difference once you feel that your computer is slowing down.
How to Remove Malware from Your Computer?
Do you think malware has successfully infiltrated your system? Here are some ways to remove it:
Method #1: Back Up Your Important Files and Documents.
Before you take care of the malware infection, the first thing you should do is back up all your important files and documents. To create a backup, simply save your files on an external drive or via free cloud storage services.
Method #2: Use a Malware Removal Tool.
In order to keep your computer free of malware, you will have to use a malware removal tool to identify and get rid of the malware quickly. One that we recommend is Outbyte Anti-Malware.
Outbyte Anti-Malware will scan your whole system, checking every corner, including the Task Scheduler, the system registry, and browser extensions. It will also remove tracking cookies that spy on your online activities.
Method #3: Reset Your Browsing Settings.
There are instances when malware will change your browser settings in an effort to further infect your computer. It will show advertisements and also facilitate the download of other malicious files. It is for those reasons you need to take the time to review your browser settings once in a while.
Preventive Measures to Take After a Malware Infection
We’re assuming that you have already removed any forms of malware that may have attacked your computer. Now, you have to take preventive measures to protect your computer.
Here are some preventive measures that we recommend to keep your computer from getting infected:
1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication.
If, by any chance, your computer was infected with Houdini malware, then there is a possibility that your accounts and passwords were compromised. To prevent this from happening again in the future, enable two-factor authentication.
2. Make Sure Your Software and Apps Are Updated.
An outdated app or piece of software may cause your computer to become infected with malware. This is because it may have lots of vulnerabilities that have been exploited by cybercriminals. Keeping your apps and software up to date will reduce the risks of a malware attack.
3. Install an Antivirus Program.
An antivirus is a piece of software that is designed to keep your computer safe and your information secure. By installing one, you can boost your computer’s defense against malware. Although Windows computers already have Windows Defender, there’s nothing wrong with installing another tool.
Conclusion
You can never really tell how damaging malware is, unless you yourself has experienced it. If you suspect that your computer has been attacked by any form of malware, be it the Houdini malware or not, don’t fret. Simply try the solutions above to get rid of it, and take preventive measures to prevent future attacks from taking place.
Have you been attacked by the Houdini malware? How did you go about it? Let us know in the comments.