How to Remove a Bug in Your Computer Screen

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Remove tiny bugs inside your computer or laptop monitor

Co-authored by Rain Kengly Reviewed by Stan Kats

Last Updated: January 15, 2025 Fact Checked

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Getting the Bug Out

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Why is a bug inside my computer screen?

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Prevention

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Tips

Did an insect crawl into your monitor? If there's a literal bug stuck in your computer screen, don't try to squish it! Instead, turn off your screen and lure it away with another light source. Here's what to do if you find a bug in your computer screen and how to prevent it.

Removing a Bug Inside a Monitor

To get a live insect out of your monitor, turn your monitor off. Place a flashlight or another light source next to it, and wait for the bug to crawl out of the side. If it's dead, disconnect the monitor, turn it upside down, and tap the back gently to shift the body away from the screen.

Section 1 of 3:

Getting the Bug Out

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1
Lure the bug out with light. The bug was initially drawn to your screen's brightness. To get it out, turn your computer off entirely and unplug all cables. Place a new light source next to your computer, such as a flashlight, to draw the bug out from the side.
- If it's a flying insect, try building a simple trap with an old plastic bottle and something sweet as bait.
- If an ant is inside of your computer screen, try luring it out with sugar or honey. Just keep an eye on the bait; you don't want the ant running back inside before you can get rid of it.
- You can choose to put your monitor in a box to isolate the bug if you're worried about it getting back in again. Once it crawls out, you can dispose of it.
2
Gently tap the back of the monitor to move the body. If the bug is already dead inside your monitor, you can try getting it to fall to the bottom so it's out of sight. Please turn off the monitor and unplug it completely. Turn it upside down, and then gently tap the back (non-screen side) of the monitor to shift the carcass down.
- If the bug has been squished against the monitor, it is most likely stuck there. You can wait for the bug to dry out completely before tapping it away.

Section 2 of 3:

Why is a bug inside my computer screen?

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Insects are drawn to your computer because of its warmth and light. If you use your computer for long periods of time, it generates heat that acts as a beacon.^{[1]
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- Before you attempt to troubleshoot, don't squish the bug. A simple press against your monitor could kill the bug inside of it, and it'll be really difficult to remove without prying your monitor open.

Section 3 of 3:

Preventing Bugs from Getting Inside Your Computer

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1
Keep your space clean. Trash and old dishes can attract bugs more quickly. Keep your computer area clean to prevent unwanted critters near your electronics.
- If you have an infestation in your environment, consider hiring an exterminator or pest control specialist.
2
Cover up your monitor when you're away. When you're finished using your computer, turn it off completely. You can purchase a monitor dust cover to protect it when it's not in use.
- If you're using a laptop, tuck it away into a designated laptop sleeve or case.
This can help prevent new pests from entering. You can even purchase under-the-door seals to keep bugs out.

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Tips

In the past, malware has been used to replicate the image of a bug skittering across your screen. If you're worried the bug may be malware instead, run a scan to remove it.

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