I am Using Windows XP and from time to time my mouse pointer will move on its own, without me touching the mouse. Any ideas why?

General Disclaimer - Happy Online would like to remind all visitors that they are responsible for their own computer settings - some suggestions may not work on some computers and may result in errors - you should only make changes to your computer if you are comfortable with any consequences that may arise.

Here is a few reasons for users to consider if they have Mouse Cursors that move all by themselves.

First, it could be that you have a Trojan - a Trojan is a program like a virus that can infect your computer. The Trojan allows someone else to access your computer remotely - you would however probably expect a bit more than just a moving mouse cursor if you had a Trojan, however you can purchase or download software that detects and deletes Trojans.(You should be able to get a trial version of software that deletes Trojans if you want to put your mind at rest.)

Another possibility is that your mouse is full of dust and dirt and that the mouse pointer moves after a tension build up passes a watershed point. (This may explain small movements in one direction.)

I have also heard reports that some optical mouses have the tendancy to course a shaking mouse pointer - this is probably due to a hardware or software bug.

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