Security Wizard: How to Check Whether Your PC is Infected with Malware

Before you implement the recommendations from the Security Wizard it is vital that your ensure that your PC is not infected with a virus or other malware. There are two ways in which you can do this.

1. Use an on-line scanner to check your system

Most of the major anti-virus software vendors offer on-line scanners. Here are some you can choose from:

  • F-Secure (Internet Explorer or Firefox
  • Panda Security (Internet Explorer or Firefox)
  • ESET (Internet Explorer or temporary file download)
  • BitDefender (Internet Explorer, Firefox, or with extension)
  • OneCare (Internet Explorer only)

Connect to the site of your choice and follow the instructions provided carry out a full scan of your system. If any infection is found refer to 'What to do if my system is infected?' below.

2. Implement the Wizard anti-virus/anti-malware recommendations

(a) Download the recommended anti-virus and, if appropriate, anti-malware product(s).

(b) Remove any existing anti-virus/anti-malware software if it's not what was recommended.

(c) Install the recommended software, ensure it is up to date, and then run a full anti-virus and, if appropriate, anti-malware scan.

(d) If no problems are found proceed with the rest of the wizard recommendations, otherwise refer to 'What to do if my system is infected?'

What to do if your system is infected

The infection must be cleaned up before proceeding any further. If you need advice on how to deal with the problem, post in the forum, or refer to one of the following on-line guides:

Once you are sure that the infection has been removed, repeat step 1 or 2 above, as appropriate, to confirm that the PC is now clean.

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