Virus Removal

Even for an expert, removing a virus from a computer can be a difficult process without the help of specialised software tools. Many of these tools are free and relatively easy to use.

virus warning If your computer is not running normally and you suspect you have a virus it is important to remove it as quickly as possible. Otherwise you run the risk of leaking personal information, being compromised further and infecting others.

Name that virus!

In order to remove a virus you will need to know it's name. There are a number of reliable detection programs you can download and run which can do this (click here). Some of these programs will also remove the virus for you or will at least link to a downloadable removal tool.

It is important to remember that these programs do not prevent infections they simply remove them. To prevent further infection you will have to install anti-virus software.

Always update!

If you have been infected by a virus and you currently use antivirus software you may be running an out of date version. Most applications have an update feature that you can either schedule or run manually.

Alternatively you can visit the vendor's web site to update your software and subsequently perform a thorough scan of your computer.

If you do not currently use antivirus software, subscribe to a service and scan your computer immediately.

Identify a suspected infection

There are so many viruses, some harmful, some annoying, that the symptoms are not easy to define. However, there are some 'common sense' guidlines that may help.

	Trust your instincts If your computer is running slower than normal or behaving irratically, run a virus scan and make sure you know why it's behaviour has changed.
	Read information and error messages If something that worked previously has now failed don't dismiss it as irrelevant. If you didn't cause the change then ultimately someone else did.
	Take reports seriously If someone in your address book recieves a strange email form you that you can't remember sending then you probably didn't. Don't take the risk of continuing to send emails - your private information could become public.
	Try to stay informed Pay attention to virus warnings in the news.
	Run updates regularly Run updates regularly.
	Sharpen your knowledge Consider the fact that in the future you will be required, more and more, to conduct of your personal business online. A better understanding of the risks will allow you to operate more effectively. (Trusted Partners - Rits Security Group)