I Think My Computer Has a Virus: What Should I Do?

If someone may be controlling your computer

Disconnect that device from the internet and use a different trusted device to seek assistance. Write down what happened without reopening suspicious messages. If work accounts are involved, tell your organisation before attempting cleanup. Remote support should be arranged independently, not through the person who raised the alarm.

If you see only a browser pop-up

Close the tab or browser without clicking inside the warning. Reopen without restoring suspicious tabs. If notifications return, inspect the browser’s site permissions and unfamiliar extensions. A webpage claiming to have scanned your whole computer is not a reliable diagnosis. Avoid downloading multiple “repair” programs in response.

Run an appropriate Windows security check

1. Search Start for Windows Security and open Virus & threat protection.
2. Check protection updates, then review existing detections and actions.
3. Use Scan options for a fuller scan when appropriate; follow the installed security product’s guidance if another antivirus manages protection.
4. Save work before an offline scan because the computer restarts. Record the result rather than assuming one scan proves everything is clean.

Protect accounts separately from the computer

Cleaning a device does not undo information already disclosed. On a trusted device, review affected accounts, passwords and sign-in activity. Contact your bank promptly through a known channel if money or banking access may be involved. Be cautious of anyone offering guaranteed recovery of lost funds.

When routine remote cleanup is not enough

We can discuss whether remote investigation is suitable for pop-ups, unwanted software and security alerts. Send the symptoms and what you already tried; do not send passwords, one-time codes, payment details or sensitive files.