What might be a sign that malware is present on a system?

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Indications of malware on a system can manifest in various ways, making early detection critical for maintaining system integrity and security. The choice indicating "All of the above" is particularly comprehensive because each of the listed signs can be associated with malware presence.

Reduced internet speed can be a telltale sign, as malware often consumes bandwidth to communicate with external servers, engage in data exfiltration, or facilitate other malicious activities. This may lead to noticeable slowdowns when browsing the internet or when using online services.

Frequent software updates typically do not indicate malware; however, if a system is finding it necessary to update frequently and without user initiation, it might suggest that malware is attempting to exploit vulnerabilities in the software. While this is not a direct sign of malware, it could point to poor security practices or existing infections that exploit outdated software.

Frequent computer crashes can be another indicator that malware is present. Malicious software can interfere with system operations by consuming excessive resources or corrupting system files, leading to stability issues and unexpected shutdowns.

Considering the range of potential signs of malware present is vital for effective cybersecurity hygiene, hence this collective option encapsulates the broad spectrum of symptoms that may indicate the presence of malware on a system.

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