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How to Delete Malware?

Published in Malware Removal 3 mins read

To effectively delete malware from your computer, follow these steps:

Steps to Remove Malware

It's crucial to act quickly and methodically when dealing with malware. Here’s how to proceed, incorporating the information from the provided reference:

  1. Disconnect From the Internet:
    • Immediately disconnect your PC from the internet. This prevents the malware from communicating with its source, downloading more malicious files, or sending your data elsewhere.
  2. Enter Safe Mode:
    • Restart your computer in Safe Mode. Safe Mode starts Windows with minimal drivers and services, which often prevents malware from running. To enter Safe Mode, you will generally repeatedly press F8 or Shift+F8 while your computer is restarting before Windows begins loading. Consult your specific operating system's instructions to confirm.
  3. Refrain From Logging Into Accounts:
    • Avoid logging into any online accounts while your system is compromised. This precaution prevents malware from stealing your usernames and passwords.
  4. Delete Temporary Files:
    • Clear all your computer's temporary files. Malicious software may hide copies or components of its code within temporary files. This can usually be done through the Disk Cleanup utility built into most operating systems.
  5. Check Your Task Manager:
    • Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and review the list of running processes. Identify and terminate any suspicious processes that you don't recognize or that are using excessive resources.
  6. Run a Malware Scanner:
    • Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to scan your entire system for malware. Ensure your scanner's virus definitions are updated to the latest version before scanning.
    • Several free and paid anti-malware tools are available such as Windows Defender, Malwarebytes, Avast, and many more.
  7. Fix Your Web Browser:
    • If you notice changes in your web browser's settings, such as a different homepage or default search engine, you may need to reset your browser to its default settings. Browser extensions are also common avenues of entry for malware so it is recommended to review and remove any browser extensions that are unfamiliar or suspicious.
  8. Clear Your Cache:
    • Clear your web browser cache and history. This removes potentially malicious scripts and data cached by your browser.

Summary of Steps

Step Action
1. Disconnect Sever internet connection to prevent further damage.
2. Safe Mode Restart computer in Safe Mode to limit malware activity.
3. Avoid Logging In Do not log into any online accounts during the cleaning process.
4. Temp Files Delete temporary files where malware could be hiding.
5. Task Manager Look for and close any suspicious processes.
6. Malware Scan Scan your system using updated anti-malware software.
7. Web Browser Fix Reset browser settings, clear the browser cache, and delete suspicious extensions.
8. Clear Cache Clear browser cache and history to eliminate cached malware.

By carefully following these steps, you can significantly increase your chances of removing malware and securing your system.

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