What to do if your computer has a virus

Signs you may have malware

Not every slow PC is infected, but these patterns are worth taking seriously — especially if several appear at once.

• Unexpected pop-ups or browser redirects
• Programs you did not install
• Antivirus disabled or removed without your knowledge
• Friends receiving strange emails from your account
• Someone asked for remote access or payment via gift cards

First steps — do these before anything else

Speed matters. Work through these in order if you suspect an infection or scam.

• Disconnect from the internet if you see banking pop-ups or ransomware messages
• Do not pay anyone who cold-called about a "virus on your computer"
• Change passwords from a different, clean device if you entered credentials on the infected PC
• Contact your bank if you paid a scammer or shared card details
• Call Ian on 0451 526 207 before allowing remote access to unknown callers

What Ian does to fix it

Ian identifies whether you are dealing with adware, spyware, a trojan, or a scam incident — then removes infections safely and checks that security software is properly configured.

Many cleanups are done remotely the same day. On-site visits are booked when hardware inspection or network checks are needed.

• Malware and adware removal
• Browser hijacker cleanup
• Security software review
• Follow-up after scam or remote-access incidents
• Plain-English advice to reduce repeat risk

Prevention that actually helps

No setup is bulletproof, but a few habits dramatically reduce how often problems come back.

• Keep Windows and browsers updated
• Use strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication on email and banking
• Be sceptical of unexpected calls, texts, and emails — see our scam help page
• Back up important files to cloud or external storage