If you suspect your Windows 10 computer has been compromised by hackers, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize damage and regain control. Hackers can infiltrate your system through malware, phishing, or vulnerabilities in outdated software. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove hackers from your Windows 10 computer.
Remove Hackers from Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Disconnect from the Internet
To prevent the hacker from accessing your system further, disconnect your computer from the internet immediately. Turn off Wi-Fi or unplug the Ethernet cable.
2. Enter Safe Mode
Boot your computer into Safe Mode to prevent most malware from running and to troubleshoot effectively.
- Press the Start button and select Power.
- Hold Shift and click on Restart.
- Your computer will reboot into the Advanced Startup Options menu.
- Go to Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.
- Once it restarts, select Safe Mode with Networking by pressing F5.
3. Run Antivirus Software
Run a full system scan using your antivirus software. If you don’t have antivirus protection, consider installing a reputable free antivirus tool like Windows Defender, Malwarebytes, or Avast.
- Open your antivirus software.
- Select a Full Scan or System Scan option.
- Allow it to finish scanning, then follow the instructions to remove any detected malware.
4. Update Your System and Software
Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Make sure your operating system and software are up to date to patch security holes.
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Click Check for Updates and install any available updates.
- Update your browsers, antivirus programs, and other software to ensure they are running the latest security patches.
5. Change Your Passwords
If you believe a hacker gained access to your accounts, change your passwords immediately. Focus on changing passwords for:
- Email accounts
- Social media accounts
- Online banking
- Cloud storage services
Use strong, unique passwords for each account. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible for added protection.
6. Check for Suspicious Programs or Services
Sometimes, hackers install backdoors or malicious software on your computer to maintain control. To find these:
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Look for unfamiliar programs running in the Processes tab.
- If you find anything suspicious, right-click and choose End Task.
- Also, go to the Startup tab to disable any strange startup programs.
7. Run Windows Defender Offline Scan
If your antivirus software didn’t detect the threat, try running a Windows Defender Offline scan.
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Security → Virus & Threat Protection.
- Under Current Threats, click Scan Options.
- Select Windows Defender Offline Scan, then click Scan Now.
- Your computer will restart and run a thorough scan.
8. Remove Unnecessary Programs
Uninstall any unnecessary programs that could be part of the hack or malware.
- Open Control Panel → Programs → Programs and Features.
- Scroll through the list and uninstall any unfamiliar or suspicious applications.
9. Reset Your Computer
If you’re still not sure if your system is fully clean, you may want to reset your computer. This will restore your computer to factory settings, removing any lingering threats.
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Recovery.
- Under Reset this PC, click Get Started and follow the instructions.
Note: Make sure to back up important data before doing a reset, as it will erase everything on your system.
10. Monitor Your System for Unusual Activity
After removing the hacker, continue to monitor your system for unusual activity. Set up additional security measures, such as:
- Installing a firewall
- Enabling two-factor authentication for online accounts
- Running regular antivirus scans
Final Thoughts
Dealing with hackers can be distressing, but by acting quickly and following these steps, you can regain control of your Windows 10 system. Always keep your operating system, antivirus software, and all applications up to date to prevent future attacks. Stay vigilant and ensure that your passwords are strong, unique, and protected with two-factor authentication.
If you’re unsure about handling a breach or need help securing your system, consider reaching out to a professional cybersecurity expert for additional guidance. Hire ethical hacker for penetration testing