Viruses and malware remain one of the most common computer problems we deal with at our shop in Harold Hill. Whether it's aggressive pop-up ads, a computer that's suddenly running painfully slow, or the terrifying sight of a ransomware demand, malware infections can range from annoying to devastating.
This guide will help you recognise the signs of infection, understand what you're dealing with, and know when to get professional help. If you're in Romford, Hornchurch, or anywhere in Havering, local expert help is available.
Warning Signs Your Computer is Infected
Malware doesn't always announce itself with flashing warnings. Many infections try to stay hidden while they steal your data or use your computer for criminal purposes. Here are the most common signs that something's wrong:
Sudden Slowdowns
Your computer was fine yesterday, but now everything takes forever. Malware often runs constantly in the background, hogging your processor and memory.
Pop-ups Everywhere
Ads appearing even when your browser is closed, or pop-ups that won't go away. Adware infections bombard you with advertisements to generate revenue for criminals.
Ransomware Messages
A screen demanding payment to unlock your files is the calling card of ransomware - one of the most serious infections. Never pay the ransom - get professional help immediately.
Unfamiliar Programs
Programs you don't remember installing, browser toolbars you didn't add, or your homepage changing to something unfamiliar are classic signs of infection.
Programs Acting Strangely
Applications opening or closing by themselves, your mouse moving on its own, or your computer doing things without your input could indicate someone has remote access.
Friends Receiving Strange Emails
If contacts tell you they've received strange emails or messages from you, your accounts may be compromised - often a sign your computer is infected with malware that steals passwords.
Types of Malware Explained
"Malware" is an umbrella term for malicious software. Understanding what you're dealing with helps you know how serious the situation is:
Viruses
Traditional viruses attach themselves to legitimate programs and spread when you run infected files. They can corrupt data, slow your system, or create backdoors for other malware.
Adware
The most common infection we see. Adware bombards you with advertisements, redirects your searches, and changes your browser settings. Annoying but usually not dangerous to your data.
Spyware
Silently monitors your activity, recording keystrokes, capturing passwords, and tracking your browsing. Often completely invisible until the damage is done.
Ransomware
The most destructive type. Ransomware encrypts your files and demands payment (usually in Bitcoin) for the decryption key. Never pay - there's no guarantee you'll get your files back, and payment funds criminal organisations.
Trojans
Named after the Trojan Horse, these disguise themselves as legitimate software but carry hidden malicious payloads. Often downloaded from dodgy websites or email attachments.
Important: If you see a ransomware message, don't panic and don't pay. Turn off your computer immediately and seek professional help. The quicker you act, the better chance of recovering your files.
What to Do If You Think You're Infected
If you suspect your computer has malware, here's what to do:
1. Disconnect from the Internet
This prevents the malware from sending your data to criminals or downloading additional malicious software. Unplug your ethernet cable or turn off Wi-Fi.
2. Don't Enter Any Passwords
If spyware is recording your keystrokes, entering passwords will hand them straight to criminals. Avoid logging into anything - especially banking or email.
3. Run a Malware Scan
If your computer is still usable, download Malwarebytes (free version) from another device, transfer it via USB, and run a full scan. This catches many common infections.
4. Check for Obvious Culprits
Look in your installed programs for anything unfamiliar. Check your browser extensions for things you didn't add. But be careful - don't delete anything unless you're sure it's malicious.
5. Change Passwords from a Clean Device
Using your phone or another computer, change passwords for your email, banking, and any other important accounts. Enable two-factor authentication where possible.
Local Tip: If you're in Romford, Harold Hill, or surrounding areas and not confident dealing with an infection yourself, bring your computer to a local professional. Attempting complex malware removal without experience can sometimes make things worse or result in data loss.
When to Get Professional Help
Some infections are relatively simple to clean up yourself. Others require professional tools and expertise. Consider getting professional virus removal in Romford if:
- You see a ransomware message - Professional recovery is often possible
- Your antivirus is disabled - Some malware specifically targets security software
- The infection keeps coming back - Indicates a rootkit or deep infection
- You suspect banking details are compromised - Speed is critical
- You're not comfortable with DIY removal - Better safe than sorry
- Your data is important - Professionals can clean while preserving files
At Chiltern Computers in Harold Hill, we see malware infections every week. We charge a small diagnostic fee to assess the situation - if we can clean it during the diagnostic, that's all you pay. For more complex infections, we'll explain what's involved and quote you fairly.
Preventing Future Infections
Once you're clean, these habits will help keep you safe:
- Keep Windows updated - Security patches fix vulnerabilities that malware exploits
- Use Windows Defender - It's actually good now and comes free with Windows
- Be suspicious of emails - Don't click links or open attachments from unknown senders
- Download from official sources - Avoid "free" software from random websites
- Use strong, unique passwords - A password manager makes this easy
- Enable two-factor authentication - Especially on email and banking
- Back up regularly - So ransomware can't hold your files hostage
- Be careful with USB drives - Don't plug in drives from unknown sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Computer repair specialist and founder of Chiltern Computers in Harold Hill. With years of experience removing viruses and malware from infected systems across Romford and Havering, I pride myself on honest advice and getting your computer back to health quickly.
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