Can viruses hurt a turned off computer?

Question

I was just wondering if turning off the computer is a sure way of stopping theft of data. I was recently attacked by viruses on my other computer. I'm not quite sure what kind of virus it was but it installed random stuff on my desktop. I automatically cut the power from the system out of panic. Will this stop trojans and etc. from stealing information?

-Thnx,

Kevin

Answer 1

Viruses are also computer programs, so they work till the computer is switched on.

Computer switched off - no theft of data for sure.

Take care

Answer 2

If the computer is turned off and unplugged there is no way for a virus/trojan to hurt or steal information from your computer.

Answer 3

MINUTE you power up...BANG !!

WHERE is your anti virus ?

Answer 4

Yes when the power is off they cant steal any data. However, with the power off yu cant fix your computer either. You need to power it up and remave the virus

Answer 5

i thank it only can if your internet is on

Answer 6

be careful your computer may explode when is turned off if you have viruses... haha

Answer 7

I think it work just for a moment as long as your desktop off. And when you turn it on the viruses work again to attack your desktop. To prevent viruses on your desktop you may update your anti virus.

Answer 8

I would turn your computer on without the internet on so it can't send your information through to someone else. From there, try scanning your computer with your anti-virus and see if you can delete these programs. If that can't be done, salvage what you can by putting it on a CD, and reformat your computer.

I may be wrong but there is no way someone else can get your information if your internet is not on. Damage can still be done to your computer however but that is unavoidable.

Turned off your computer is safe.