What it is
In security, a zombie is a hacked computer that an attacker controls from far away. Your PC keeps working like normal, but in the background it follows commands as part of a botnet - sending spam, launching DDoS attacks, or trying to break into other accounts.
Why it matters
If your device is a zombie, it can help criminals attack others, get your internet blocked, slow everything down, and expose your data and accounts.
How it works
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Infect: malware arrives via a bad download, fake update, or phishing link.
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Call home: the malware connects to a command server to get tasks.
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Act: sends spam, joins DDoS attacks, mines crypto, or steals data.
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Hide: runs quietly at startup and updates itself to avoid removal.
Red flags
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Internet is slow and router lights blink nonstop even when you are idle.
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Unknown processes use a lot of CPU or network in Task Manager.
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Friends get spam from your accounts, or you see mailer-daemon bounces.
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Security tool is disabled, or new startup tasks appear with random names.
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Your IP shows up on blocklists or your ISP sends abuse notices.
Do it right
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Disconnect from the internet, then run a full scan with reputable anti-malware.
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Remove unknown startup items and scheduled tasks; reset browsers.
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Update Windows, apps, and your router firmware; change Wi-Fi and account passwords from a clean device.
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Turn on firewall and real-time protection; avoid cracks and random installers.
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If problems persist, back up documents and do a clean reinstall.