Ghostware is a kind of malware outfitted to evade getting detected by regular antimalware software. It helps the hacker access the target’s private information, whether the target is a government body or a corporation. Since it is created to avoid antivirus detection, it can be very difficult to fix.
How can you recognize ghostware?
- Suspicious network activity: Since ghostware depends on communicating with its control server to send out the extracted data, you should keep an eye out for signs of large data uploads or unauthorized connections.
- Unusual processes: Monitor your “Task Manager” to identify any suspicious processes running in the background — they can tip off ghostware activities.
- Alterations to settings or files: Ghostware can make alterations to files on the system or system settings without the user’s knowledge.
How do you remove ghostware?
- Install an antivirus: The use of antivirus software greatly reduces the likelihood of viruses like ghostware getting into a system.
- Rootkit removal tools: These help identify and erase ghostware that may be obscuring their presence on your system using rootkits.
- Backup: You can restore your PC before the ghostware attack to remove the malware.
- Professional help: If the removal of the ghostware proves problematic, the only logical step would be to involve the services of a professional who is trained and experienced with such tasks.