What to do if pc has virus

So the first sign of a PC virus may well be your computer doing unusual things. Are you suddenly seeing stacks of pop-up adverts? When you try to search the internet, do you get weird results? Are you locked out of your computer altogether with a message demanding money? These are all what computer experts call 'malware', which is short for malicious software.

Each one is a slightly different kind, so the one that blasts you with adverts is called adware, the weird search results are the result of what's called browser hijacking and the locked computer is called ransomware. In the case of ransomware, never, ever pay the ransom or even worse, give the criminals your card details or bank details: they probably won't unlock your PC but they'll definitely make off with your money.

Although many viruses are obvious, some of them aren't. Some of them are only obvious to other people. For example, if you get messages from friends, family or colleagues asking why you're sending them weird stuff, that's often a sign that a virus on your computer is sending out infected emails to try and spread to everybody in your contacts book.

To get rid of a virus, you need to do two things. First of all, you need get hold of some digital disinfectant. Certain viruses prevent installation of anti-virus programs.

If you are unable to install, there are stand-alone anti-virus solutions available as well with no installation required at all. Don't interrupt the scan everytime a virus is detected until the scanning is completed. A good anti-virus will give you the option to heal, quarantine or delete the infected file easily. Once the virus is removed, repair Windows to make sure that it functions smoothly. Also install the latest Windows patches to protect your PC from re-infection of viruses.

In case no virus is found, there may be problems in the hardware and software creating incompatibility. If you're on a Mac, follow these instructions to remove any malware that may be causing the pop-up to appear.

We have more information about these "tech support" scams malware in our Knowledge Base. If you're seeing this on a free streaming site, keep in mind that these types of websites are notorious for serving malware and opening pop-ups and "pop-unders" along with free TV and movie programming.

These ads can be very difficult to block. AdBlock like other ad blockers is not an anti-malware program.

If you use more than one antivirus or antispyware program at the same time, your PC may experience decreased performance, become unstable, or restart unexpectedly.

Caution: When you remove your currently installed Internet security programs, your PC is in an unprotected state. If you haven't installed another antimalware program make sure that Microsoft Defender Antivirus is enabled, and that Windows Firewall is turned on. Note: Some security software may not uninstall completely. If you're unable to fully uninstall an app, go to the publisher's website or contact their technical support line for help. Windows 10 Windows 8. More isn't always better Running multiple anti-malware apps at the same time can cause your system to be slow or unstable.

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