Malware is the scourge of the software world, but it doesn’t have to get the best of you. Malware often makes its way onto your device through misleading downloads, shady email attachments, and even legitimate-looking sites. After installation, it can then steal your sensitive information, slow your device, or cause frequent crashes. The good news? Removing malware doesn’t have to be a hassle. You can clean out your device and make it safe with this step-by-step guide.
Disconnect from the Internet
The first step in malware analysis is to break its communication. Unplug your computer from the internet in case the malware spreads infection to other devices or sends data back to cyber criminals. If your question is searching how to handle a suspicious file or pop-up, the answer is don’t click on it.
Boot into Safe Mode
Safe Mode is a bare-bones version of your operating system that only runs the 0s and 1s necessary to make your computer function. It also makes it easier to discover and remove malware that might otherwise remain hidden.
Delete Files
Cleaning out temporary files is a good idea as it can help speed up the scanning process for malware, and perhaps even get rid of some malware itself. Run a system cleaner use the built-in Disk Cleanup on Windows or a third-party cleaner to remove files no longer in use and that way make room for a cleaner scan.
Run a Malware Scanner
This is where the malware cleaning process started. Scan the system using a reliable malware prevention or antivirus scanner. Popular tools include:
- Malwarebytes
- Bitdefender
- Norton Power Eraser
- Microsoft Defender (included with Windows)
Run a full system scan, not a fast one. It may be tedious, but a precise cleanup process is crucial to fully getting rid of the malware. Quarantine or delete any threats found following the scanner’s prompts.
Uninstall Unnecessary Software Manually:
Occasionally, malware presents itself as a legitimate application. If you’re not sure what to remove, scan the list of installed apps and delete anything you don’t recognize or that seems weird:
- For Windows: Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
- On Mac: Open the Applications folder and delete the apps you don’t want.
Online search is your friend if you are uncertain about a program. But be careful, you don’t want to delete important system files.
Reset Web Browsers
Tons of malware hijack your web browser, setting your web homepage to something else, or adding non-stop ads. Reset your browser settings to default.
- In Chrome: settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults.
- In Firefox: Help > More Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox.
- On Safari: Clear history and disable suspicious extensions from the Preferences.
You may also want to change your passwords, particularly for online banking, email, social media accounts, and anything else you check online.
Update Your Software
Out-of-date software opens the door to hackers. Check that your operating system, antivirus software, and all apps are up-to-date. Most systems let you switch on automatic updates — they’re one of the simplest yet most powerful tools against future infection.
Back Up and Stay Protected
After your PC is all clean, back up the critical data you rely on (photos, documents, etc.) on an external hard drive or a trustworthy cloud network. This means if malware hits again, you have a way of getting your data back!
For ongoing protection:
- Get yourself some decent antivirus software.
- Do not open or click on any links/attachments that you receive from unknown sources.
- You should use strong, unique passwords for each account.
- Turn on multifactor authentication if available.
Final Thoughts
The idea of having malware on your system may be scary, but by following these simple steps, you can regain control and safeguard your data. Equipped with the right tools and steps for prevention, you can avoid future infections and browse with confidence.
Also Read: What Your Team Gains from Having Consistent Software Guidance
