Malware and viruses are one of the most common issues faced by computer users. They can slow down your device, steal personal information, and cause software to malfunction. If you've ever thought, how to check for malware in a PC or how to check if your computer has a virus, you are not alone.
What Are Malware and Viruses?
Before we look for them, let's understand what these terms mean.
Malware is a general term for any software designed to harm your computer, server, or network.
Viruses are a specific type of malware. They attach themselves to real programs and spread from one computer to another, often without you knowing.
While "malware" and "virus" are often used interchangeably, it's good to know the difference. For checking your PC, the steps to find them are mostly the same.
Signs Your Computer Might Have a Virus or Malware
Your computer might show several warning signs if it's infected. While some of these can also mean hardware problems or a full hard drive, seeing many of these signs together strongly suggests a possible infection.
Unexpected Slowness: Is your computer much slower than usual? If programs take a long time to open, files save slowly, or the whole system feels sluggish, it could be a sign.
Too Many Pop-Up Ads: If you see a lot of pop-up ads, especially when you're not even online, or if ads appear on websites that usually don't have them, you likely have unwanted ad software.
Strange Computer Behavior:
Programs Opening or Closing on Their Own: If applications start or shut down without you doing anything, it's a big warning sign.
Unusual Error Messages: Seeing error messages that don't make sense or pop up repeatedly can point to a problem.
Frequent Crashing or Freezing: Sudden and frequent crashes or freezes might be due to malware.
Changes to Your Web Browser:
Redirected Searches: When you try to search for something, are you sent to a different search engine than your usual one?
New Home Page: Has your browser's home page changed without your permission?
New Toolbars or Extensions: Do you see new toolbars or browser add-ons that you don't remember installing? These are common signs of browser hijackers.
Missing or Damaged Files: If some of your files are missing or have been corrupted, especially if you didn't delete them, malware could be the cause.
High Internet Activity When Not in Use: Check your internet usage. If your computer seems to be constantly sending or receiving data even when you're not actively using the internet, it could be a problem.
Antivirus Software Disabled or Not Working: If your antivirus program suddenly turns off, can't update, or won't run scans, it's a very strong sign that malware is actively trying to hide itself and stop you from removing it.
New, Unknown Programs: Look at your list of installed programs (in Windows, go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features or Control Panel > Programs and Features). If you see programs you don't recognize or didn't install, they could be malware.
Your Friends Receive Spam from You: If your friends or contacts tell you they're getting strange emails, messages, or social media posts from your accounts that you didn't send, your accounts or computer might be compromised.
How to Check for Malware on Your PC
If you notice any of the signs above, it's time to act. Here's a clear process to check your computer for malware and viruses.
Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet
This is the first and most important step. Unplug your Ethernet cable or turn off your Wi-Fi. This stops the malware from talking to its creators, spreading to other devices, or downloading more harmful content.
Step 2: Start in Safe Mode (Windows)
Safe Mode starts your computer with only the most basic programs and services. This can stop malware from running, making it easier to find and remove.
For Windows 10/11:
Click the Start button, then the Power icon.
Hold down the Shift key and click Restart.
Your computer will restart and show a "Choose an option" screen.
Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
After your computer restarts again, you'll see a list of choices. Press 4 or F4 for "Enable Safe Mode" (it's best to avoid networking during initial scans).
Step 3: Run a Full Scan with Your Antivirus Software
Once in Safe Mode, run a full scan with your installed antivirus program. Make sure your antivirus is updated with the latest virus definitions. If your current antivirus isn't working or finding anything, try a different well-known program.
Update Your Antivirus: If you can, update your antivirus definitions before scanning. This helps it find the newest threats.
Perform a Full System Scan: Don't just do a quick scan. A full scan checks every file and folder, which is vital for finding hidden malware.
Step 4: Use a Second-Opinion Scanner
Sometimes, one antivirus program might miss something. Using a free, reliable second-opinion scanner can catch what your main antivirus overlooked. These tools are designed to work alongside your primary antivirus without problems. Good options include:
Malwarebytes Free: A very popular and effective tool for finding and removing many types of malware. Download it (before disconnecting from the internet if you haven't yet), install it, and run a full scan.
HitmanPro: Another strong choice for quick, deep scans to find stubborn threats.
Step 5: Check and Remove Unwanted Programs
Even after scanning, it's good to manually check for suspicious programs.
Windows 10/11: Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
Older Windows Versions: Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
Look for any programs you don't know, didn't install, or that have strange names. If you find one, uninstall it. If you're not sure, search for the program's name online to see if it's safe or known malware.
Step 6: Review Browser Extensions and Reset Browser Settings
Malware often targets your web browsers.
Check Browser Extensions/Add-ons:
Chrome: Click the three dots in the top right > More tools > Extensions.
Firefox: Click the three lines in the top right > Add-ons and themes > Extensions.
Edge: Click the three dots in the top right > Extensions. Remove any extensions you didn't install or that look suspicious.
Reset Browser Settings: Most browsers have an option to reset them to their default settings. This can remove unwanted home pages, search engines, and other persistent changes.
Step 7: Delete Temporary Files and Clear Browser Cache
Malware can sometimes hide in temporary files or browser caches.
Disk Cleanup (Windows): Search for "Disk Cleanup" in the Windows search bar. Select your main drive (usually C:), and then check options like "Temporary files" and "Temporary Internet Files" to clear them.
Clear Browser Cache and Cookies: In your browser settings, you can find options to clear Browse data, including cached files and cookies.
Step 8: Update Your Operating System and Software
After removing the malware, make sure your operating system (Windows) and all your software are up to date. Updates often include security fixes that close weaknesses malware can use.
Windows Update: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.
Software Updates: Update your web browser, antivirus software, and any other programs you use often.
How to Stay Safe in the Future
Knowing how to check for malware is important, but stopping infections before they happen is even better.
Install antivirus software and keep it updated.
Don't click on unknown links in emails or messages.
Download from Trusted Sources: Only download software from official websites or reliable app stores.
Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication where possible.
Enable a Firewall: Windows has a built-in firewall. Make sure it's turned on to help block unwanted access to your computer.
Back Up Your Data: Regularly copy your important files to an external hard drive or cloud service. If your computer gets badly infected, you'll still have your data safe.
Be Skeptical of Emails and Messages: Don't open attachments or click links from unknown senders, or if the email seems too good to be true.
Update your Windows system regularly to patch security holes.
Avoid pirated software, as it often contains hidden malware.
When to Get Professional Help
If you've followed these steps and your computer still shows signs of infection, or if you're not comfortable doing these things yourself, it's time to get professional help. A computer repair technician or IT specialist can use more advanced tools and methods to thoroughly clean your system.
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