Virus & malware removal
Virus and malware removal in Rock Hill, SC
Pop-ups that won't close, a browser that goes to the wrong search page, fake 'your computer is infected' warnings, and the aftermath of a scam call.
Seeing a warning with a phone number on it? Don't call it. Microsoft says its real error and warning messages never include a phone number. Those screens are scams built to get you on the phone and get remote access to your computer. Close the browser. If it won't close, hold the power button until the computer shuts off.
If you already let someone connect to your computer
- Disconnect the computer from the internet: unplug the network cable or turn off Wi-Fi.
- From a different device, change your email password first, then banking and any other important logins.
- Call your bank or card company if you gave out card numbers or let them see your banking.
- Leave the computer off the internet until it has been checked. Scammers often install their own remote-access tool so they can come back.
What removal covers
Getting rid of malware is more than running one scan. A proper cleanup removes the unwanted programs and browser extensions, checks what starts with Windows, resets browser settings that were hijacked, looks for remote-access tools that shouldn't be there, and makes sure Windows Security and Windows Update are actually working afterward.
When a clean reinstall is the better answer
Some infections dig in deep enough that the honest fix is to back up your files, erase the drive and reinstall Windows. That's also the safer route after ransomware or after a scammer has had full control for a while. See Windows install and reinstall for how that works.
Ransomware
If files have been renamed and you see a ransom note, unplug the computer from the network so it can't reach other computers or shared drives. Don't pay, and don't delete the note yet. Recovery depends on whether you have a backup the ransomware couldn't reach, such as an external drive that was unplugged.
Common questions
Do I need antivirus on top of Windows Security?
For most home users, the Windows Security that ships with Windows 10 and 11 is enough when it is turned on and up to date. What matters more is keeping Windows and your browser updated and not installing things from pop-ups.
Can you get rid of a virus without erasing my files?
Usually, yes. Most adware, browser hijackers and common malware can be removed with your files left in place. After ransomware or a long remote-access scam, a full reinstall with your files backed up first is often the safer choice.
Can Macs get malware?
Yes, though less often than Windows PCs. Adware and fake 'cleaner' apps are the common ones on Macs. See our Mac repair page.
How did I get a virus?
The common ways in are fake download buttons, pirated software, email attachments, browser extensions that changed owners, and scam pop-ups that talk you into installing something.
Not sure what's wrong with it?
Describe what it's doing in plain words. That's enough to get started.
Start with the problem, not the jargon.
You don't need to know what part failed. Tell us the make if you know it, what the computer is doing, and when it started. We'll reach out the way you choose and talk through next steps.
- Windows laptops and desktops, Macs, gaming PCs
- Homes and small offices
- Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Tega Cay, York, Clover, Lake Wylie, Indian Land
Helpful if you have it: a photo of any error message, and the model number (usually on a sticker underneath a laptop or on the back of a desktop).