If you recently bought a PC from this brand, it could already contain a virus

A tech YouTuber has exposed a prominent manufacturer of mini PCs after he found that they were allegedly shipping systems with factory-installed malware.

The revelation came to light when Jon, a reviewer from The Net Guy Reviews YouTube channel, discovered spyware inside the AceMagic AD08 mini-PC that he received for review. Subsequent investigations revealed similar issues with other models, including the AD15 and S1. These findings have sparked concerns among consumers about the integrity of the products they purchase, especially in an age where cybersecurity threats are increasingly prevalent.

AceMagic, owned by Shenzhen Shanminheng Technology Co., Ltd., operates under various brands, including Kamrui and NiPoGi. Many of these mini-PCs are marketed on platforms like Amazon, where they are often indistinguishable from one another based solely on specifications. This lack of differentiation raises questions about the extent of the spyware issue and whether it extends beyond the AceMagic brand.

The spyware is designed to steal sensitive information such as stored passwords, cryptocurrency wallet data, and keystrokes from infected systems. It was initially detected by Windows Defender, prompting concerns about the security of these devices straight out of the box. The presence of malware in factory-sealed products is alarming and underscores the need for robust quality assurance measures in the manufacturing process.

Several consumers who purchased AceMagic mini-PCs have reported similar experiences, further corroborating Jon's findings. Instances of malware embedded in the recovery partition and Windows folder have raised questions about the adequacy of AceMagic's cybersecurity protocols. 

In response to the allegations, an AceMagic representative issued a statement acknowledging the issue and assuring customers that it has been addressed in subsequent product offerings. However, the lack of a formal recall or public announcement raises concerns about transparency and accountability on the part of the manufacturer. It remains unclear how many compromised devices have already made their way into the hands of consumers and what steps are being taken to mitigate the risks associated with the spyware.

For consumers who own AceMagic mini-PCs or similar products, running a thorough virus scan is advisable to detect and remove any malicious software. Additionally, exercising caution when purchasing electronic devices from lesser-known brands or third-party sellers can help minimize the risk of encountering similar issues in the future.