Feeling like your PC is hosting a digital squat party?

Glitches, slowdowns, strange noises – these could be signs of unwanted guests: malware.

Let’s tackle this calmly and effectively using tools already at your disposal in Windows.

Before we dive in…

Remember: Microsoft keeps your security in mind. They never do these things:

• Request phone calls about malware emergencies.
• Ask for personal information like emails, phone numbers, or credit cards.
• Send urgent pop-ups demanding immediate action.

If you see anything fishy like that, step away from the clicker and consult a tech professional.

Now, onto the mission: evicting those digital freeloaders!

Step 1: Disconnect and Isolate:

Think of malware as a hungry gremlin fueled by the internet. So, step one is to cut its power line. Disconnect your internet and any external devices – USB drives can be Trojan horse troublemakers in disguise. This stops the malware from spreading and sending your data on a one-way ticket to Hackerville.

Step 2: Unleash Defender, Your Built-in Antivirus:

Windows has its own security champion: Microsoft Defender. It’s like Captain Antivirus, ready to zap those bad bytes. Open “Windows Security” and launch a quick scan. This should catch most common threats lurking in the shadows. Relax, grab a coffee, and let Defender work its magic.

Step 3: Go Deep with the Safety Scanner:

For tougher foes, we call in the reinforcements: the Microsoft Safety Scanner. This deep-sea diver for hidden malware scours every corner of your system. Download it from the official Microsoft site (no clicking dodgy links!), run a full scan, and watch it hunt down those digital demons.

Step 4: Task Manager: Identifying Suspicious Activity:

Ever had a colleague hogging all the bandwidth? Malware can do that too. Open Task Manager and check for any applications you don’t recognize. Right-click those shady characters and hit “End task.” Bye-bye, bandwidth bandits!

Step 5: Clean House with Computer Management:

Sometimes, malware creates secret user accounts to sneak around your system. Open Computer Management and check “Local Users and Groups.” Look for any unfamiliar accounts created after the malware fun started. If you find any suspicious ones, right-click and select “Delete.”

Step 6: Fresh Start (as a Last Resort):

If all else fails, it’s time for a clean slate: a fresh Windows install. This wipes everything clean, including the malware and your data (unless you backed it up!). It’s a drastic measure, so only do it if the other steps didn’t work.

Bonus: Prevention is Key:

Be careful what you click, download, and install.

Use strong passwords, update your software regularly, and avoid shady websites.

Think of it as digital hygiene – keep it clean and you’ll avoid the cyber flu!

Running a business?

We understand your security concerns.

Click here for a free assessment.

We’ll help you identify any lurking threats.

By using these built-in tools and practicing good security habits, you can keep your PCs malware-free and your business operating smoothly.

Remember, staying calm and informed is key.

And that’s something no malware can disrupt!