Sometimes, just running your antivirus program is not enough to get rid of a terrible virus, like a rootkit. What a rootkit does is hack its way into allowing itself to have master privileges on a computer. It then disguises itself so that most antivirus programs cannot recognize it. Then once it disguises itself as major antivirus programs, it starts downloading malware like spyware and other types of viruses. Rootkits are usually only detected with a trained eye by a virus removal professional.
What are the symptoms of a rootkit?
- If you have a respected virus removal program installed and running and you are still continually encountering spyware and viruses, this is the number one sign that you have a rootkit.
- Your antivirus program is not running or is missing completely. It is common practice for rootkits to remove antivirus programs.
- You are connected to the Internet but cannot view web pages. Rootkits like to change the proxy settings in your internet options so that you can’t connect to the internet to view websites or download antivirus programs.
- Your desktop background changes or turns off every time your computer starts.
- Your computer seems to be running very slowly even though you’re not doing anything important
An antivirus program is likely to recognize and remove spyware, rogueware, and other malicious programs, which is a good thing. The problem is catching him before it’s too late. These programs can steal your confidential information. So if you get a lot of spyware on your computer over time, you might have a rootkit. A very bad type of virus. Find a virus removal specialist and ask about the possibility of a rootkit.