Hey can you help me pls??
Of course! I'm here to help. What do you need assistance with?
Well whenever I turn my device on, the whole screen goes black for about 5 seconds then it shows my background screen. Is it hacked?
What you're describing does not necessarily indicate that your device has been hacked. It's not uncommon for screens to go black temporarily as part of the normal boot-up process when a device is turned on. During this time, the device is initializing hardware and loading the operating system. If the black screen persists for only a short period of time, such as the 5 seconds you mentioned, and then proceeds to load the operating system and functions normally, it's likely just part of the normal startup process.
However, if you're experiencing additional symptoms that are causing concern, such as unusual behavior, unexpected pop-ups, significantly slower performance, or if the black screen occurrences have started suddenly without any changes or updates to your system, then some troubleshooting may be in order.
Here's what you can do to investigate further:
1. **Update your system**: Ensure that your operating system and all software (including security software) are up to date.
2. **Perform a virus scan**: Use your security software to run a full system scan. This will check for any malware or viruses that could be causing issues with your device.
3. **Check startup programs**: Too many programs starting up with your computer can slow down the boot process. You can use system tools like Task Manager on Windows (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) or System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items on macOS to manage startup programs.
4. **Hardware diagnostics**: If you suspect a hardware problem (like issues with your hard drive or graphics card), you might want to run hardware diagnostics. Many manufacturers provide built-in tools for this purpose.
5. **Review system logs**: System logs can sometimes provide clues to what's happening during boot-up. On Windows, you can use Event Viewer, and on macOS, you can use Console to review these logs.
6. **Seek professional advice**: If you're still unsure or uncomfortable with the steps above, consider seeking professional technical support.
Remember, if your device has been hacked, you would likely notice more than just a brief black screen—you might see strange messages, have unexplained data loss, or notice unknown programs being installed or running. Keep an eye out for such behaviors and take precautions by regularly backing up your data and using strong passwords.
It's not normal. Whever I turn it on it goes black. And sometimes when I am using it it'll randomly go for no reason.
If your device screen is going black intermittently while you are using it, as well as during startup, this could be a sign of a hardware issue, a software problem, or possibly a loose connection rather than hacking. Here are some steps to troubleshoot the issue:
1. **Check for Overheating**: Make sure that your device is not overheating. Overheating can cause the device to shut off or the screen to go black to prevent damage.
2. **Hardware Connections**: If you're using a desktop with a separate monitor, check the physical connections between your monitor and computer. Make sure the cable is firmly connected and that there are no damaged pins. If it's a laptop, a loose display cable inside the laptop could be the issue, but you usually need professional service to fix that.
3. **Update Drivers**: Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can cause display issues. Make sure you have the latest drivers installed for your graphics card.
4. **Check Power Management Settings**: On a laptop, power settings may cause the screen to go black to save energy. Check these settings to ensure they aren't set too aggressively.
5. **Test with an External Monitor**: If you have an external monitor handy, try connecting it to your device. If the external monitor doesn't go black, the issue might be with your device's screen.
6. **Boot into Safe Mode**:
- On Windows, booting into Safe Mode can help determine if the issue is caused by a software or driver conflict.
- On macOS, you can boot into Safe Mode by holding the Shift key during startup. If the issue doesn't occur in Safe Mode, it's likely a software issue.
7. **Check for Software Issues**: Sometimes, software or apps running in the background can cause the screen to go black. Try closing programs one by one to see if the issue stops.
8. **System Updates**: Ensure your operating system is up to date with all the latest updates and patches.
9. **Run Diagnostics**: Some devices have built-in diagnostic tools that you can run to check for hardware issues. Consult your device’s manual or manufacturer's website for instructions on how to run these.
10. **Reset or Reinstall the OS**: As a last resort, backing up your data and performing a factory reset or fresh installation of your operating system might help if the cause is software-related.
If none of these steps resolve the issue, it would be advisable to have a professional technician look at the device. Screen issues can sometimes be indicative of a failing graphics card, a problem with the screen itself, or another hardware fault that might require repair or replacement.
How do I scan it to check for a virus
To scan your computer for viruses, you'll need to use antivirus software. If you do not already have antivirus software installed, there are several reputable options available, including free ones like Avast, AVG, or Bitdefender, or paid solutions like Norton, McAfee, or Kaspersky.
Here's a general guide on how to perform a virus scan on your computer:
### For Windows:
1. **Using Windows Security (Windows 10 / 11):**
- Click on the Start Menu and go to 'Settings' > 'Update & Security' > 'Windows Security'.
- Click on 'Virus & threat protection'.
- Under 'Current threats', select 'Quick scan' to run a basic scan. If you want to run a more thorough scan, click on 'Scan options' and then select 'Full scan'.
2. **Using Third-party Antivirus Software:**
- Open the antivirus software you have installed.
- Look for an option that says something like "Scan," "Full Scan," "Deep Scan," or "Custom Scan."
- Follow the prompts to start the scan. A full scan might take a while, sometimes over an hour depending on the size of your hard drive and the speed of your computer.
### For macOS:
1. **Using Third-party Antivirus Software:**
- macOS doesn’t have a built-in antivirus scanner like Windows, so you’ll need to download a third-party app.
- Open the antivirus application you have installed.
- Look for a button or option to start a new scan. You may see options for a "Full Scan" or a "Quick Scan."
- Select 'Full Scan' if it's your first scan or if you suspect an infection. A quick scan is usually faster but less thorough.
- Start the scan and wait for it to complete.
Regardless of your operating system, once you start the scan, your antivirus program will check through all your files to look for known viruses and malware. If any threats are found, the program will typically alert you and offer options on how to deal with them, such as cleaning, quarantining, or deleting the infected files.
Make sure you keep your antivirus software updated for the best protection, as new viruses and malware are developed all the time and antivirus programs are regularly updated with the latest definitions.
If your antivirus software does find and remove malware but you still experience the black screen issues, then the cause is likely not due to a virus, and you may need to investigate further or seek professional technical support.
I have a Lenovo tablet.
Thank you for specifying that you are using a Lenovo tablet. The process to run a virus scan on an Android tablet, such as a Lenovo, is a bit different from doing so on a PC or Mac. Here's how you can scan your Android tablet for malware:
1. **Use Google Play Protect**:
- Google Play Protect is built into the Google Play Store app and it scans your device for harmful behavior.
- Open the Google Play Store app.
- Tap on the menu (three lines in the top-left corner).
- Select 'Play Protect'.
- Tap on 'Scan' to start scanning your device for harmful apps.
2. **Using Third-party Antivirus Software**:
- If you'd like to use an additional layer of protection, you can download an antivirus app from the Google Play Store.
- Some popular antivirus apps for Android include Avast, AVG, Bitdefender, and Norton.
- After installing the antivirus app, open it and follow the app's instructions to run a full scan of your tablet.
Please note that you should only install antivirus apps from reputable developers and that are offered through the Google Play Store. Downloading apps from unknown sources can put your device at risk of becoming infected with malware.
While malware on Android devices is less common than on Windows computers, it can still happen, especially if you've installed apps from outside the Google Play Store or clicked on suspicious links in emails or websites.
If you have not installed any apps outside of the Google Play Store and your tablet is still exhibiting strange behavior, it's worthwhile to check for updates and consider whether there might be a hardware issue, as previously mentioned in the troubleshooting steps.
Alright, I might consider downloading the Avast app, it seems like it's accurate and I read the reviews.
That sounds like a reasonable course of action. Avast is one of the well-known antivirus apps for Android devices and can provide an extra layer of security for your tablet. Here's how to download and use Avast Antivirus on your Lenovo tablet:
1. **Install Avast Antivirus**:
- Open the Google Play Store on your tablet.
- In the search bar, type "Avast Antivirus" and search.
- Select the "Avast Antivirus – Scan & Remove Virus, Cleaner" app from the search results.
- Tap "Install" and wait for the app to download and install on your tablet.
2. **Set up and Scan**:
- Once installed, open the Avast Antivirus app.
- The app may guide you through a setup process which usually involves accepting the privacy policy and granting necessary permissions for the app to function properly.
- If prompted, agree to any updates or definition downloads that help the app detect the latest threats.
- Navigate to the 'Virus Scan' or 'Smart Scan' option within the app and tap it to start scanning your device.
3. **Review Results**:
- After the scan is complete, review the results presented by Avast.
- If any threats are found, follow the app's recommendations to resolve the issues. This may involve removing or quarantining the malicious apps or files.
4. **Regular Scans and Updates**:
- It is sensible to perform regular scans to keep your device protected.
- Also, keep the Avast app updated to the latest version to ensure it can protect against new threats.
Keep in mind, while antivirus software can greatly reduce the risk of infection, no solution is 100% foolproof. Always exercise caution when downloading apps and clicking on links, even if you have antivirus protection installed.
If you continue to experience the problem with the screen going black even after running a virus scan and checking for issues, it may indeed be a hardware-related issue with your tablet, and you might need to contact Lenovo support or take your device to a repair service for further assistance.
But if I do a factory reset, will it help get rid of it? My tablet freezes from time to time to the point where I can't touch anything on it. I have to always turn my tablet off and turn it back on. And sometimes I can't even get through the little password thing!
A factory reset can resolve a number of issues on a tablet, including problems that are caused by corrupt software or malware. By performing a factory reset, you will be restoring the device to its original system state, which can often eliminate software bugs and glitches that are causing the device to freeze or behave erratically.
However, it's important to note that a factory reset will erase all the data on your tablet, including apps, settings, and personal files (such as photos, videos, and music). Therefore, before you proceed with a factory reset, make sure to back up any important data to preserve it.
Here's how to perform a factory reset on most Android tablets:
1. **Backup Your Data**:
- Go to "Settings" > "System" (or "System & updates") > "Backup & reset" (or just "Backup").
- Ensure that the "Back up my data" slider is turned on and that your data is being backed up to your Google account.
2. **Perform a Factory Reset**:
- Go to "Settings" > "System" (or "System & updates").
- Tap on "Reset options" (or "Backup & reset").
- Select "Erase all data (factory reset)" or just "Factory data reset".
- Confirm that you wish to reset the device. You may be prompted to enter your device's PIN or password.
3. **Complete the Reset**:
- After confirming, your tablet will begin the factory reset process. The device may reboot several times.
- Once the reset is complete, you will need to set up your tablet as if it were new, including signing in with your Google account and reinstalling apps.
Remember, if you're unable to navigate through the settings due to the tablet freezing or not recognizing touch inputs, you might have to perform a "hard reset" using the physical buttons on the tablet. This process can vary depending on the specific model of your Lenovo tablet, so you should consult the user manual or Lenovo’s official support website for the correct procedure.
If you still face issues after a factory reset, it's more likely a hardware problem. In this case, try reaching out to Lenovo's customer support for further assistance or take the tablet to a professional repair service for a diagnostic.
What is a hardware problem?
A hardware problem in the context of a tablet or any computing device refers to any issue related to the physical components that make up the device, rather than the software that runs on it. Hardware problems can involve any piece of equipment that is part of the device's construction. Here are some common hardware-related issues you might encounter with a tablet:
1. **Screen Issues**: Cracked displays, unresponsive touchscreens, flickering, or black screens can result from drops, spills, or component failures.
2. **Battery Problems**: The device might not hold a charge, may discharge rapidly, or may not charge at all due to battery degradation or a faulty charging port.
3. **Button Malfunctions**: Physical buttons (power, volume) that are stuck, unresponsive, or inconsistent.
4. **Motherboard Failures**: The motherboard contains the central circuit board and is crucial for all components to function correctly. Damage or defects here can cause a wide variety of issues.
5. **Memory Issues**: Problems with the internal memory can lead to frequent crashes, inability to boot up, or data loss.
6. **Overheating**: Excess heat can cause the device to shut down unexpectedly or limit performance. Overheating can damage components over time.
7. **Sound Problems**: Faulty speakers, microphones, or audio chips can lead to no sound, distorted sound, or microphone failures.
8. **Connectivity Issues**: Problems with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular connections due to faulty antennas or chips.
9. **Camera Failures**: Blurry images, an inability to start the camera, or visible defects in the photos taken can be signs of camera hardware problems.
When a hardware issue occurs, it often requires physical repair or replacement of the affected part. In many cases, a factory reset or software troubleshooting won't resolve such problems, because the root cause is not related to the device's software or settings.
It's worth noting that hardware problems should usually be diagnosed and repaired by professionals, especially if the device is still under warranty, as attempting to repair it yourself could void the warranty or further damage the device. If you suspect a hardware issue with your Lenovo tablet, consider contacting Lenovo support or an authorized repair center for assistance.
This wasn't' happening when I first got it though.
Hardware problems can develop over time for various reasons, even if a device worked perfectly when it was new. Here are some possible causes for hardware issues to arise after a period of use:
1. **Wear and Tear**: Regular use over time can lead to the natural degradation of components. For example, batteries degrade with each charge cycle, and buttons can wear out with repeated presses.
2. **Physical Damage**: Accidental drops, bumps, or spills can damage internal components, leading to issues that might not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time.
3. **Heat Exposure**: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures or inadequate ventilation can cause overheating, which can shorten the lifespan of electronic components.
4. **Dust and Debris**: Dust accumulation inside the device can cause overheating or disrupt electrical connections, leading to various issues.
5. **Manufacturing Defects**: Sometimes defects are not obvious at first and can manifest only after the device has been used for some time.
6. **Software Updates**: On rare occasions, updates to the operating system or certain applications can cause conflicts with the hardware, leading to performance issues, although this is more of a software-related problem.
7. **Component Failure**: Specific components can fail due to manufacturing flaws, subpar materials, or simply bad luck.
Considering that the issues you've described—frequent freezing and the screen going black—have developed over time, they could result from one of the reasons mentioned above. To further diagnose the problem, you might want to consider the following steps:
- **Check for Software Updates**: Sometimes, firmware updates from the manufacturer can resolve underlying issues that may appear to be hardware-related.
- **Reset the Device**: As mentioned earlier, performing a factory reset can help rule out software problems. Just be sure to back up your data first.
- **Seek Professional Help**: If the problem persists, it's best to consult with a professional technician or contact Lenovo support. If your tablet is still under warranty, you'll want to go through the official support channels to get service.
If you've been cautious with the device and it hasn't been exposed to any apparent physical harm or extreme conditions, the cause might be less obvious, and professional diagnostics would be the next step to determine the root of the issue.
If I backup the device will I be able to get everything back?
When you back up your Lenovo tablet (or any Android device), you can generally restore your data, apps, and settings after a factory reset or when setting up a new device, assuming the backup process was completed successfully. Here’s what typically gets backed up:
1. **Google Account Data**: Contacts, emails, and calendar events associated with your Google account are backed up to Google's servers and can be easily restored.
2. **Apps and App Data**: Your installed apps and associated data can be backed up. However, whether app data is backed up can depend on the app and whether it supports Android's backup service.
3. **Device Settings**: Wi-Fi networks and passwords, wallpapers, display settings, language and input settings, and date/time can be backed up.
4. **SMS Messages**: Your text messages can be backed up, although this feature might depend on your device model and software version.
5. **Call History**: The log of incoming, outgoing, and missed calls can be backed up.
6. **Photos and Videos**: If you use Google Photos, your photos and videos are backed up to your Google account. You will need to make sure that Google Photos sync is turned on.
7. **Music and Other Files**: Files such as music, documents, and other user files can be backed up manually by copying them to your computer or cloud storage.
Here's what you should do to back up your tablet before performing a factory reset:
- Make sure that your tablet is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
- Go to "Settings" > "System" (or "System & updates") > "Backup & reset" (or similar).
- Ensure that the "Back up to Google Drive" option is enabled and that your Google account is connected.
- Perform a manual sync if you want to force a backup at that moment.
Remember, when you restore from a backup after a factory reset, you will typically have to go through the setup process, during which you can sign in with your Google account and select the option to restore your data. Keep in mind that the exact steps to perform and restore a backup may vary depending on your tablet's model and the Android version it’s running on.
Finally, it's important to verify your backup before proceeding with the reset to ensure that all your important data is indeed backed up and safe.