Can USB get infected like this ?
Can USB get infected like this ?
I have a compromised computer and my goal is to upgrade to a fresh Windows installation and reformat the entire hard drive. What happened is that while I was loading the USB for setup, I forgot to press the F12 button, so Windows kept booting normally during the logo. After removing the USB, I wondered if the infection could have occurred while Windows was running. Since I took it off before it reached the user, I’m concerned about any risk during that time.
I tend to decline this request since Windows hasn't been installed yet. Cybersecurity isn't my area of expertise, and I'm aware there are scenarios where boot sectors or BIOS issues might impact external devices if conditions align.
Your drive should be fine. I mean technically depending on what you are infected with could have infected the USB, but your one little machine would not be the target of such a high level attack. Chances are you got infected with some basic malicious program and nothing was done to the usb drive. So just continue on with your wipe and reinstall and things should be fine.
It's not necessary to stress too much since my credit card was blocked for use from another country, so I just want to stay safe.
Are you certain this came from a breach on your device? It could easily stem from something like a phishing email, a man-in-the-middle attack, or even a compromised card reader. There are numerous methods to steal data without it being tied to a keylogger on your home computer. Many websites selling keys or similar services aren’t secure, and some actually trade personal information on public platforms. Now I’m wondering—what leads you to believe your computer is the issue?