I believe the device I recently purchased was preloaded with malicious software.
I believe the device I recently purchased was preloaded with malicious software.
Hey there, I understand you're feeling frustrated and concerned. You recently got a new computer and have been dealing with multiple login attempts from around the world. Your security settings show repeated activity, and you've already reset your password several times due to too many failed attempts. You're worried about protecting your important accounts and want advice on what to do next. There’s no specific software recommended for this situation—focus on strengthening your current security measures like enabling two-factor authentication, updating your passwords, and monitoring your account regularly. If you need further guidance, feel free to ask!
Was es ein gebrauchtes oder refurbishiertes Gerät gewesen, das du gekauft hast, oder war es neu? In jedem Fall wurde es von einem vertrauenswürdigen Anbieter erworben? Unabhängig davon würde ich eine Windows-InstallationsUSB verwenden, um den Laufwerk zu formatieren und Windows neu zu installieren. Meine übliche Vorgehensweise ist, dass ich bei einem Kauf außerhalb eines seriösen Händlers immer eine frische Windows-Installation durchführe.
Remove the current drive from the new PC and either install a fresh one or erase the existing drive on the old PC. After that, reinstall Win-OS or upgrade, then add Linux to it.
I always delete the factory/refurbisher Windows setup, naturally. Particularly when it comes from an eBay seller that revamps office devices; you can't tell what they did to them. Windows will still work if you install the same version (and the machine originally had a valid license).
Ensure two-factor authentication is active for your email and any other accounts linked to it. Keep your device away from shared networks, just in case. Follow the advice to disable the drive (avoid using it in the microwave).
Add what others have mentioned already—ensure your Windows account is protected. Activate two-factor authentication for apps. Disable any third-party access linked to the account. Protect accounts relying on the same email for login and stay alert for password reset alerts sent there. If this password appears elsewhere, update those accounts too.
It seems like you're questioning the legitimacy of the activity, suggesting it might not be malicious spyware. You mention failed login attempts and suspect someone could have accessed your account during setup. It appears your email might be linked to a public data breach, with automated tools targeting it using a compromised password. This has happened to others before.
First step is to stay calm. Sure, it sounds simple, but it’s actually the best approach. Keep the computer disconnected until you finish setting it up. As others suggested, wipe the storage device and reinstall Windows from the ground up. You can't guarantee an anti-virus or malware will work perfectly. Regarding your Microsoft account, consider creating a new one with a different username. It might seem inconvenient, but this is now nearly impossible to use due to excessive login attempts. Make sure to remove all data from your existing account and ask Microsoft to close it if possible. Switching accounts means updating your email for contacts, moving files and messages to the new account. But it’s safer than risking a breach. Good luck!
I purchased it from Newegg, which I thought was a trustworthy store. The maker is Hoengager. I have limited knowledge about computers, but I keep learning more. The item was marked as brand new, not refurbished. I’ll check the Windows USB as you suggested. Thank you.