Pop-ups that won’t go away, a browser homepage you didn’t choose, or a PC that has suddenly slowed to a crawl can all point to malware. The good news is that you can often remove a virus from your PC using tools already built into Windows. Here’s how to do it safely.
Signs your PC may be infected
- Unexpected pop-ups, toolbars or new browser extensions
- Your search engine or homepage has changed
- The computer is much slower than usual or the fans run constantly
- Programs open or close on their own
- Friends receive strange messages or emails from your accounts
- Security software has been switched off without you doing it
Step 1: Disconnect from the internet
Unplug the network cable or turn off Wi-Fi. This stops the malware sending out data or downloading more harmful software while you clean up.
Step 2: Run a full scan with Windows Security
Open Windows Security from the Start menu, go to Virus & threat protection, choose Scan options and run a Full scan. Remove or quarantine anything it finds.
Step 3: Run a Microsoft Defender Offline scan
Some malware hides while Windows is running. In the same Scan options menu, choose Microsoft Defender Offline scan. Your PC will restart and scan before Windows loads, which can catch threats a normal scan misses.
Step 4: Remove unwanted programs and extensions
Check Settings > Apps for anything you don’t recognise and uninstall it. Then check each browser’s extensions and reset the browser settings if your homepage or search engine has been hijacked.
Step 5: Change your passwords
Once the PC is clean, change the passwords for your email, banking and other important accounts, ideally from a different device. Turn on two-factor authentication wherever you can.
How to avoid infection in future
- Keep Windows and your apps updated
- Only download software from official websites
- Be wary of email attachments and links, even from people you know
- Keep regular backups of your important files
When to call a professional
If scans keep finding threats, your files have been encrypted, you can’t open Windows Security, or the PC won’t boot properly, it’s time for expert help. Some infections are deeply embedded and the safest fix is a clean reinstall of Windows with your files backed up first.
PC Forge provides virus and malware removal across Dublin, with free pickup and delivery. Create a repair ticket and we’ll get your PC clean and secure again.
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