Is Someone Watching You? How to Detect Hidden Spyware on Your PC
Imagine sitting down with family, reminiscing over old photos on your computer—then suddenly, an estranged relative emails one of those exact photos.
Coincidence?
Maybe.
But what if someone is secretly watching?
A recent case like this raised major red flags about spyware, remote access, and digital privacy.
If you’re worried that your PC might be compromised, here’s how to spot hidden spyware and take back control of your system.
Step 1: Could Spyware Be Involved? Signs to Watch For
Spyware and Remote Access Trojans (RATs) can silently collect your data, monitor activity, and even hijack your webcam. However, one or two of these signs alone might not indicate spyware, but when multiple red flags appear together, it’s time to investigate.
- Your computer runs slower than usual. While malware can consume resources, slowdowns can also happen due to too many open applications, outdated hardware, or system bloat. If performance drops suddenly and without explanation, it’s worth checking for spyware.
- Your webcam light flickers unexpectedly. This could be a bad driver, faulty cable, or aging hardware. However, if the issue persists after troubleshooting, it may be a sign of unauthorized access.
- Files or settings change without you doing anything. This is a bigger concern if you’re the sole user of your device and settings or files suddenly change.
- Unfamiliar emails, messages, or login attempts on your accounts. Strange emails alone aren’t unusual, but outgoing messages or login alerts from locations you don’t recognize could indicate keylogging or credential theft. Always review login history and enable MFA immediately.
- Unfamiliar software appears on your PC. Remote access tools like AnyDesk or TeamViewer can be used for support—but if you didn’t install them, it’s a huge red flag.
Story: Lisa, a small business owner, started noticing strange lags on her laptop. Initially, she assumed it was an update issue, but then her webcam light flickered on unexpectedly. Running a malware scan found nothing. It wasn’t until she checked installed programs that she discovered a remote access tool running in the background—logging her keystrokes and transmitting them externally. Lisa immediately disconnected her device and contacted a cybersecurity expert.
Step 2: Run a Deep Spyware & Malware Scan
Use Windows Security (built into Windows 10 & 11). Works well for home users but lacks deeper protection for business environments.
Use Malwarebytes or ESET for scanning. Good for personal use, but businesses should use advanced EDR tools for full protection, including rollback and automated remediation.
Avoid wasting time digging through Task Manager. Modern systems run multiple security processes, making it hard for non-technical users to spot malicious activity. Instead, focus on running a proper malware scan.
Story: Jake, a college student, received an alert about suspicious login attempts on his bank account. Instead of scanning his PC, he immediately changed his password and enabled MFA. Later, he checked his startup programs and found a hidden remote access tool installed without his knowledge. He then wiped his system and reset all his online passwords, securing his accounts before further damage occurred.
Step 3: Audit Remote Access & Network Activity
Since some spyware bypasses antivirus scans, manually checking your system can help confirm suspicious activity.
Look for unknown remote access tools.
Check Windows Event Viewer for Remote Logins. While most users won’t dig through logs, security professionals use correlated event logs in a SIEM to detect suspicious patterns.
Story: Maria, a marketing consultant, started noticing her mouse moving on its own. She checked her installed programs and found a remote access tool running silently in the background. After digging deeper, she realized an ex-employee had set up hidden access to spy on company operations. She immediately removed the software, reset all passwords, and implemented stricter security measures.
Step 4: Upgrade to Windows 11 for a Fresh Start
Windows 11 includes stronger built-in security. Zero Trust, TPM 2.0, and hardware-based isolation offer significant protection improvements.
A full system reinstall is the best way to remove hidden spyware. However, some advanced threats (e.g., rootkits or BIOS-level attacks) may persist beyond an OS reinstall.
Don’t assume an old PC will support Windows 11. If your laptop is 10+ years old, it likely won’t meet system requirements. For security and performance, upgrading hardware may be necessary.
Story: David, an accountant, had used his five-year-old Windows 10 laptop for years. Despite antivirus protection, his files kept disappearing. He decided to wipe his system and upgrade to Windows 11. Along with adding more RAM and switching to an SSD, his system became not only secure but also significantly faster.
Final Step: Secure Your Digital Life
Follow these steps to keep your system secure:
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on all accounts.
Use business-grade antivirus & firewall solutions for maximum protection.
Check browser extensions & app permissions. Many apps request unnecessary access—limit permissions to only what’s needed.
DS Tech follows an ‘assume compromise’ approach when onboarding new clients. We verify that all systems are clean before implementing long-term security solutions.
At DS Tech, we specialize in protecting businesses and individuals from spyware, malware, and unauthorized access. If you suspect your system is compromised, we offer full security audits, real-time monitoring, and ongoing cybersecurity protection.
Think your business PC might be compromised?
Don’t wait—contact DS Tech today!
