Over the years, Chromebook users have been asking this question over and over, “Can Chromebooks have viruses?”, wondering if it was ever possible. There is very little space for doubt, thus the answer is a resounding no.
This is why you need to tune up your Chromebook first, before jumping to a conclusion. Who knows? The issue could be an easy fix.
Nevertheless, if your Chromebook has been functioning strangely, you could suspect a virus has somehow gotten inside.
Continue reading to see what changes are made to your system after a virus infestation and what you can do to fix the problem almost immediately.
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In This Article
What happens if a Chromebook becomes infected with a virus?
You could get a notification informing you that your Chromebook has been infected with malware, followed by a restricted browser window. The fact that various applications, particularly those from the Google Play Store, start opening up randomly without your intervention is one of the most obvious symptoms that ChromeOS is infected with a virus.
The Chrome browser and pre-installed programs like “Files” are no different. Another possibility about this terrible incident is that your Chromebook may restart on its own without any human assistance from you. Also, when using your Chrome browser to visit the internet, you could often see error messages.
Google does a wonderful job of limiting pop-ups and preventing other sources from clogging up your working interface. However, in the event of a virus invasion, all protection measures will be rendered useless, leaving your Chromebook as open to viruses as a deer with amputated legs.
Moreover, the device may only partly operate in some of its fundamental functions, like double-clicking, turning off the device, starting programs, and accessing your data from anywhere on the system. These are some of the most obvious indications that you have recently been infected with malware, along with the possibility of being spied on.
Let’s go on to the important question, which is whether Chromebooks can get a virus in the first place. Fortunately, this kind of infection of ChromeOS is quite uncommon. These gadgets focus on security and were created with consolidated protection layers in mind.
According to an official statement from Google, ransomware attacks against Chromebooks have never occurred throughout their operational lifetime. In most cases, the level of protection built into these gadgets is just too high for a simple virus to manage. But let’s suppose for the time being that the gadget has been infected with malware.
Now what? 90% of the time, all you have to do is restart your Chromebook to put your anxieties to rest. Next, we’ll discuss how to do it. Let’s speak about another crucial aspect of the subject—one that you should be cautious about—for the time being.
Your Chromebook is most likely to receive a virus via a malicious Google Play Store software or Chrome Web Store extension if there is even a remote possibility that it might. Due to the vast array of possibilities you have at your disposal daily, you must take great care to avoid taking the incorrect turn.
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Fixing your virus-infected Chromebook
A containment feature on Chromebooks makes it exceedingly difficult for an infection to spread. You are running a program, web page, or tab in a “sandbox” environment whenever you launch one.
As a result, if a virus or other piece of malware infects an opened tab, it will only harm that tab and not the rest of the operating system, remaining completely contained.
There is another protection precaution ready for a virus even if it manages to escape the confining sandbox. Your Chromebook does a self-check called “Verified Boot” each time you turn it on. This frees the system from danger and enables it to scan for possible dangers, breaches, and viruses.
As a result, your machine is still secure, and the virus’s high aspirations were ultimately dashed. This is a very simple method for maintaining system stability. Give your Chromebook a thorough reset if you suspect it may be infected.
When it comes to eliminating invasive malware, antivirus software is wonderful, particularly from a reputable brand like Malwarebytes. To possibly reduce the chance of virus infections, we suggest installing one of these applications right now.
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How to keep your Chromebook from getting a virus
The following is a helpful checklist of things to perform to ensure the security of your Chromebook. Keep in mind that you, the websites you frequent, and the material you download from the internet have a significant impact on your online security.
Avoid downloading from unreliable sources
The finest piece of advice we could offer you would be this. Neglect rogue third-party retailers. You significantly reduce the likelihood of contracting a virus. Always keep in mind that if an app is solely available for purchase in the Play Store but is otherwise available for free elsewhere, it can never be good for your Chromebook.
If you download anything from unofficial app stores, your whole smartphone is in danger. If you want to download anything, keep an eye out.
Regardless of the software or browser extension that has caught your attention, ask yourself: Am I getting this from a reliable source? Try to only install apps from reputable stores like the Chrome Web Store and the Google Play Store.
Here’s a recommendation from Google on how tools to help you stay safe online while using your Chromebook.
Update ChromeOS regularly with the most recent patches
It can never be beneficial for your quick device to hold out on upgrades and postpone them without a valid purpose for your Chromebook. Whenever you are instructed to update, act immediately and without hesitation.
Restarting your device is another wonderful technique to remove dangers and provide you with a better version to work with. Updates often offer enhanced levels of protection. Update your Chromebook often, in conclusion.
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Conclusion
In summary, getting malware or a virus on a Chromebook is exceedingly unlikely. It is very hard to compromise this robust operating system due to the many levels of security. This is one of the factors that make these modern computers one of the safest tools one could purchase for personal use.
The operating system for Chrome has the best security available. This is merged as well since the program in question isn’t a full-featured one but rather one with fewer features for quick productivity. Lessening complexity hence results in fewer security-related issues.
However, there are many things you can do to restore your Chromebook to full functionality if you get a virus and begin to notice all the signs we discussed earlier.
FAQs
Do you need antivirus protection on a Chromebook?
Yes, antivirus software is necessary for Google Chromebooks. Although they have some built-in antivirus protection, it isn’t completely reliable. You can end yourself downloading harmful software from the Google Play Store or falling for phishing or internet fraud.
What antivirus should I use for my Chromebook?
For Chromebooks, Norton, Kaspersky, Bitdefender, Trend Micro, and Avast are the top antivirus programs.
Is a Chromebook safe for online banking?
Yes, Chromebooks are secure for banking. Since they include built-in security safeguards, virus protection, and validated boot characteristics, Chromebooks are more advanced in terms of security. Chromebooks are a secure option if you’re using one to access an online banking page with Google Chrome on your laptop.