What to Do If You Have a Computer Virus
Do you suspect your computer has been affected by a computer virus? If so, it’s important to address it right away.
Important note: The course of action suggested here assumes that you have antivirus software installed on your computer and that you are familiar with the terms and procedures pertaining to it, including regular software updates and virus definition updates.
Software updates:
- are newer versions of the antivirus program.
- occur on an occasional basis.
Virus definition updates:
- occur routinely and are developed with the discovery of new viruses.
- allow antivirus programs to recognize new viruses.
Steps to Take If You Think Your Computer Has a Virus
- If you don't receive automatic software updates, download the latest update from your software developer's website.
- If you don't receive automatic virus definition updates, locate and download the latest virus definitions from your software developer's website.
- Check your e-mail folders for any messages with suspicious attachments. Do not open attachments! Delete immediately.
- Run a full system scan using your antivirus software. Refer to technical support resources provided by your antivirus software developer for specific instructions.
- Was a virus detected?
NO: If a virus was not detected, but you know something is wrong with your computer, your antivirus software may not be reading the virus accurately. It’s also possible that there is a technical problem that is not virus related.
In either case, seek the services of an experienced computer technician. Discontinue use of your computer until it has been serviced to prevent further threat to your data.
YES: If a virus was detected and there is an option to clean the infected files, do so. Otherwise select the “quarantine” option (as prompted by the antivirus software) to secure the infected files temporarily; consult your computer technician for help with proper disposal.
Spread the Word
If you believe the virus was spread by e-mail, contact the people in your e-mail address book and advise them to delete messages from you that have attachments; if possible, let them know by some other means than e-mail. Inform your computer technician that you experienced a virus attack so that he or she can assess the other computers in your organization.
