Unexpected pop-ups? Browser behaving strangely? Computer suddenly running slowly or showing warnings you don’t recognise?
Your computer may have unwanted software, malware or another security problem.
Coolum Computers can inspect Windows PCs and Macs for malicious or unwanted software, remove identified threats and help get your computer back into a safe, usable condition.
Signs Your Computer May Be Infected
Common symptoms include:
- Constant pop-ups or unwanted advertisements
- Browser searches being redirected
- Unknown programs appearing
- Fake security warnings
- Sudden performance problems
- Browser settings changing by themselves
- Suspicious extensions or toolbars
- Security software being disabled
- Unexplained network or background activity
Some infections are obvious. Others can run quietly in the background, so unusual behaviour is worth investigating.
Malware Removal & Cleanup
Depending on what we find, malware remediation may include:
- Scanning for malicious and unwanted software
- Removing malware, adware and potentially unwanted programs
- Cleaning browser extensions and settings
- Removing unwanted startup applications
- Checking Windows security settings
- Installing operating system and security updates
- Reviewing your existing antivirus protection
- Checking for other problems caused by the infection
If the operating system has been badly damaged or cannot be trusted after an infection, we may recommend backing up your files and performing a clean Windows installation instead.
After a Scam or Suspected Compromise
If you’ve allowed a scammer or unknown person to remotely access your computer, it’s worth having the device checked even if everything appears normal afterwards.
We can inspect and clean the computer and help identify software or settings that should not be there.
If passwords, banking details or other accounts may have been exposed, you should also change affected passwords from a known-safe device and contact the relevant financial institution or service provider where appropriate.
Helping You Stay Protected
Once the computer is clean, we can make sure its operating system and security protection are configured correctly and explain the practical steps that reduce the chance of the same problem happening again.