Suspicious pop-ups, browser redirects, or strange behaviour can indicate malware. Here's how to clean up your system and stay protected.

Symptoms

  • Unexpected pop-ups, new toolbars, or browser redirects

  • Security software disabled or showing strange warnings

  • Programs you didn't install appearing on your system

Step-by-Step Resolution

1. Disconnect from the Internet

  1. Turn off Wi-Fi or unplug your network cable

  2. This limits potential further damage while you clean up

2. Run a Full Antivirus Scan

  1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu

  2. Click Virus & threat protection

  3. Click Scan options > Full scan

  4. Let the scan complete (this may take 30+ minutes)

  5. Follow prompts to remove any detected threats

  6. Restart your computer

3. Remove Suspicious Programs

  1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps

  2. Sort by installation date

  3. Look for unfamiliar programs installed recently

  4. Uninstall anything suspicious you didn't intentionally install

4. Clean Up Browser Extensions

  1. Open your browser settings/extensions page

  2. Remove any extensions you don't recognize

  3. Reset browser settings to default if redirects continue

5. Change Important Passwords

After cleaning your system:

  1. Change passwords for email, banking, and key accounts

  2. Use a clean device if possible, or after confirming the infection is removed

  3. Enable two-factor authentication where available

Still seeing suspicious activity? Malware can be persistent and hide deeply in the system. If anything still feels off or you handle sensitive data, our team can perform a comprehensive security check-up.

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