Loading post content...
What to Do If You Think Your Computer Has a Virus
Simple first steps for spotting malware, avoiding scams and protecting your files and accounts.
# What to Do If You Think Your Computer Has a Virus
A computer virus or malware infection can be worrying, especially if pop-ups appear, your browser behaves strangely or your bank asks unexpected security questions. The good news is that many infections can be removed, and quick action can reduce the risk to your files and accounts.
This guide is written for home users and small businesses. It explains the warning signs, what to do first, what to avoid and when to ask for help.
## Common Warning Signs
Malware does not always announce itself clearly. Sometimes the signs are subtle.
Watch out for:
- Sudden pop-ups or fake warning messages
- Browser searches going to strange websites
- New toolbars or extensions you did not install
- Antivirus warnings you do not recognise
- Programs opening by themselves
- A computer that suddenly becomes very slow
- Unknown icons on the desktop
- Emails sent from your account without permission
- Password prompts appearing at odd times
- Requests to call a support number on screen
One warning sign does not always mean a virus, but it is worth taking seriously.
## Step 1: Do Not Panic or Click More Links
The first step is to pause.
Do not:
- Click pop-up buttons
- Call numbers shown in warning messages
- Enter passwords into unexpected pages
- Install software recommended by a pop-up
- Give remote access to someone who contacted you unexpectedly
Fake support scams often try to frighten people into acting quickly. A message saying your computer is infected and you must call immediately is very often a scam.
## Step 2: Disconnect if You Are Worried
If you think something serious is happening, disconnect from the internet.
You can:
- Turn off Wi-Fi
- Unplug the network cable
- Shut the computer down if it is behaving dangerously
This can help stop remote access or prevent more data being sent. Do not keep using the computer for banking, email or shopping until it has been checked.
## Step 3: Check Your Antivirus
If you already have trusted antivirus software installed, open it from the Start menu or system tray, not from a pop-up.
Run:
1. A quick scan first
2. A full scan afterwards
3. Any recommended clean-up steps
Windows Security, built into Windows 10 and Windows 11, is a reasonable starting point for many home users. Paid antivirus can also help, but avoid installing multiple antivirus programs at the same time because they can conflict with each other.
## Step 4: Check Browser Extensions
Many annoying infections are browser-related rather than full system viruses.
Check your browser extensions in Chrome, Edge or Firefox. Remove anything you do not recognise, especially extensions linked to:
- Search tools
- Shopping helpers
- PDF converters
- Coupon tools
- Unknown security plugins
Also check your browser homepage and default search engine. Malware often changes these settings.
## Step 5: Change Important Passwords Safely
If you suspect malware, do not change passwords on the infected computer until it has been checked.
Use another trusted device, such as a clean phone or another computer, to change passwords for:
- Email
- Online banking
- Microsoft, Google or Apple accounts
- Shopping accounts
- Social media
- Business tools
Start with your email account because password resets for other services often go there.
## Step 6: Watch Your Bank Accounts
If you used online banking or shopping while the computer was acting strangely, monitor your accounts carefully.
Look for:
- Unknown payments
- New payees
- Password reset emails
- Bank messages you did not request
If you are worried, contact your bank using the phone number on the back of your card or from the bank's official website. Do not use phone numbers from pop-ups, emails or text messages.
## Step 7: Back Up Important Files
If the computer is still usable, back up important documents and photos before major repairs. However, be careful. You do not want to copy infected installers or suspicious files.
Focus on personal files such as:
- Documents
- Photos
- Videos
- Spreadsheets
- Desktop folders
Avoid backing up unknown `.exe` installers or suspicious downloads.
## Step 8: Get a Proper Clean-Up
Some infections are easy to remove. Others hide deeper in startup settings, browser profiles or scheduled tasks.
A proper clean-up may include:
- Malware scan and removal
- Browser reset
- Startup program review
- Windows update repair
- Temporary file cleanup
- Security software check
- Password and account advice
- Backup review
For small businesses, it is also worth checking whether other computers, shared drives or email accounts may be affected.
## What About Fake Support Calls?
If someone calls claiming to be from Microsoft, your bank, Amazon, BT or another well-known company and asks for remote access, be extremely cautious.
Legitimate companies do not usually call out of the blue to fix a virus on your computer.
If you have already allowed remote access:
1. Disconnect from the internet.
2. Turn the computer off.
3. Contact your bank if payment details were shared.
4. Get the computer checked before using it again.
## FAQ
### Can malware steal passwords?
Some malware can. That is why it is sensible to change important passwords from a clean device if you suspect an infection.
### Is Windows Security enough?
For many home users, Windows Security is a good baseline, but safe habits, updates and backups matter too. If malware is already present, a deeper clean may be needed.
### Should I reset Windows?
Sometimes a reset is the cleanest option, but it should not be the first step if you have important files that are not backed up.
## Conclusion
If you think your computer has a virus, pause before clicking anything else. Disconnect if needed, avoid using online banking, scan with trusted security software and change important passwords from a clean device.
DKOMS helps home users and small businesses in Hemel Hempstead and Hertfordshire with malware removal, security checks, browser clean-ups and safer setup. If your computer is behaving strangely, contact DKOMS for practical help before the problem gets worse.
Contact DKOMS
Worried about a virus, malware warning or fake support scam? DKOMS can help clean and secure your computer.