Windows 11 Task Manager trick
Banks use this Windows 11 Task Manager trick to find viruses manually.
I work at an investment bank, part-time at the IT helpdesk.
Most people rely solely on antivirus software and think they’re fully protected. In reality? Antivirus misses things, especially sneaky, low-profile threats that don’t trigger alerts. At the investment bank where I work, we never trust Antivirus alone. We manually check for hidden malware, and the fastest way is a quick Windows 11 Task Manager scan. It takes about 10-30 seconds and can catch obvious masqueraders that slip past scans.
This isn’t foolproof, advanced malware hides well (like rootkits or injections), but it’s surprisingly effective for spotting 80% of basic hidden threats, like trojans mimicking system processes. I’ve caught a few this way on banking systems that our Antivirus software overlooked.
Don’t expect miracles, you might find zero suspicious processes most months (or even years on a clean machine). That’s normal and good! But since it’s so quick, check monthly (or daily at first to learn what’s normal on your PC). Over time, you’ll spot anything new/weird instantly.
Step 1
Open Task Manager
he standard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
If this does not work (common on laptops):
Keyboard ghosting or rollover limits. Many laptop keyboards can’t register certain 3+ key combos properly, particularly using left Ctrl + left Shift + Esc. The hardware ghosts one key. It often works if you mix sides (like left Ctrl + right Shift + Esc). This bypasses ghosting on most laptops, works most times.
Another cause can be Accessibility features like Sticky/Filter Keys interfering, outdated keyboard drivers, or rare software glitches (like after updates).
Alternative ways to open Task Manager
Ctrl + Alt + Del → Select Task Manager (classic, always works even if frozen).
Right-click Taskbar → Task Manager.
Right-click Start button (or Win + X) → Task Manager.
Win + R → Type taskmgr → Enter.
Search “Task Manager” in Start menu.
Step 2
Hunt for suspicious processes.
Switch to the Processes tab.
Click the CPU column header to sort by highest usage.
Look for weird process names, as svch0st.exe with a zero, svhost.exe missing c, or scvhost.exe The real name is svchost.exe.
Unknown processes hogging CPU/memory with no obvious reason.
Multiple identical suspicious entries.
Check the Startup tab, anything odd starting?
Right-click suspicious processes → Open file location → if it’s not in C:\Windows\System32 (or SysWOW64), it’s likely malware.
Found something weird? Don’t delete yet.
Google the exact process name + Windows 11.
Run a full scan with your antivirus, or use free tools like Malwarebytes for a second opinion.
This manual check is a quick health glance, like checking your car’s dashboard lights. Do it regularly, and you’ll sleep better knowing your PC is clean.
Ever spotted a dodgy process yourself? Share in the comments, what was it called?
Tell me in the comments: ever found a weird process in Task Manager?
This brings us to the end of my post on the Windows 11 Task Manager trick.
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Disclaimer
All tips and methods mentioned in this blog are tested on Windows 11. Please note that results may vary on other operating systems or versions of Windows. Adapt the instructions accordingly.
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