Most companies that sell antivirus software also offer free virus removal tools. Some options besides Microsoft’s own are Kaspersky Free Virus Scan and Sophos Virus Removal Tool. If you can’t use a web browser on the infected computer, use a different computer to download a virus removal tool, then burn it to a CD or DVD. Insert the burned disc into the infected machine, press ⊞ Win+E to launch File Explorer, then double-click your DVD-ROM drive to find the tool.

Windows 7 and Vista users should type “protection” into the search box instead, then click “System protection. ”

Once the program is disabled, you’ll probably see a message that says your computer is at risk. You can ignore it for now as you’ll be restoring it soon.

To access Safe Mode on Windows 7 or Vista: Reboot the computer and tap the F8 key repeatedly as it restarts until you arrive at the Boot Options screen.

In Windows 7, use the arrow keys to select “Safe Mode with Networking,” then press ↵ Enter to boot into that mode. You are now in safe mode and can skip the next few steps intended for Windows 10/8 users.

Some programs, such as Microsoft’s Malicious Software Removal Tool, will remove the malware/worms without your intervention. [5] X Research source If nothing is found, it’s very likely that you don’t have a worm virus. If you still think you may be infected, try one of the other virus-removal tools.

Open the start menu, ({“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/0/07/Windowsstart. png”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/0/07/Windowsstart. png/30px-Windowsstart. png",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:460,“bigWidth”:30,“bigHeight”:30,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">

I edited this screenshot of a Windows icon. \n</p>

License: <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" class="external text" href="http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Public_domain">Public Domain</a>
\n</p></div>"}) then type “defender”. Click “Windows Defender” in the search results, then (in Windows 8, 10) click “Settings,” and flip the following switches to the “On” position: Real-time protection, Cloud-based protection, and Automatic sample submission. In Windows Vista and 7, click “Tools,” then “Options,” and then “Administrator. ” Select “Use this program,” then click “Save”.

Automatically check for updates Install system data files and security updates

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for Mac and Sophos Antivirus for Mac will both scan for and remove all adware at no cost. There are many paid options to scan and remove malware from Macs, but they are not typically recommended by experts. [9] X Research source

Never open e-mail attachments unless they were sent from a legitimate source. Limit downloads to the Mac App Store and identified developers. Mac checks all apps on its App Store for viruses and trusts other developers registered with Apple. To configure this feature on your Mac, select “System Preferences” from the Apple menu, click “Security & Privacy,” then “General. ” There, select “Mac App Store and identified developers. ”

This action won’t delete your personal data, but you’ll be logged out from the websites you had open.

Pay close attention to lesser-known games, battery savers, “cleaners,” and apps that claim to protect you from various threats.

Don’t click on any pop-ups that claim you have malware. [11] X Research source These messages will never come from your Android—they are always ads, even when they look just like a legitimate message. Before downloading an app, read through its reviews and ratings in the Play Store.

Pay close attention to lesser-known games, battery savers, “cleaners,” and apps that claim to protect you from various threats.

If you’re still experiencing symptoms, back up and restore your iPhone. [14] X Research source

Don’t click on any pop-ups that claim you have malware. These messages will never come the iPhone itself—they are always ads, even when they look very convincing. Before downloading an app, read through its reviews and ratings in the App Store.