Billions of Google Chrome users warned over bank-raiding pop-ups – you must act fast
AN OFFICIAL Google warning reveals the warning signs that you've been hacked.
There are five dangerous signs on Google Chrome that "unwanted software or malware" has been installed on your computer – with potentially devastating consequences.
Malware can be extremely dangerous.
Hackers can use it to feed you with unwanted pop-up ads, earning a profit at your expense.
But they can also use it to spy on you.
That could result in you being defrauded, extorted, blackmailed or stalked.
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It could even grant crooks access to your online accounts, and ultimately lead to your bank being emptied.
Once hackers have compromised your machine, it's important to act quickly.
Google revealed five warning signs that you might notice.
The first is unwanted pop-up ads and new tabs that appear – and won't go away.
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If your screen is constantly being bombarded with pop-ups, it's a giant red flag that malware has infected your device.
The second sign is that your Chrome homepage or search engine keeps changing without your permission.
A third red flag is that unwanted Chrome extensions or toolbars keep coming back.
Fourth on the list is that your web browsing is hijacked, with redirects to unfamiliar pages or ads.
And lastly, you may be getting alerts about a virus or warnings that your device is infected.
Google warned users to "avoid unwanted software by only downloading files or visiting sites that you know are secure".
If your device has compromised, you should uninstall or delete the unwanted programs or apps as soon as possible.
It's also worth going into your Chrome settings and tapping Reset Settings to restore them to their original defaults.
You can use your settings to block unwanted notifications from particular websites.
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And if you're using Android, you can go to the Google Play Store menu, and look for Play Protect.
Then toggle on Scan Device For Security Threats.