Published January 16, 2025 10:00am EST close 'CyberGuy': Preventing this insidious email forwarding scam that will drain your bank account Tech expert Kurt Knutsson says business email compromise scams are a serious threat. If you suspect your PC has a virus, it's important to act quickly to remove it and protect your data.Keep reading to discover the key warning signs and the steps you can take to address the issue. Illustration of a virus on a PC (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Signs your PC has a virusThere are several red flags that could signal your computer may have a virus. One of the most common is if your computer starts running unusually slow.Another warning sign is the appearance of unfamiliar apps or programs that you dont remember installing. Additionally, if your usual programs start crashing frequently or behaving oddly, its a cause for concern.Finally, an overheating computer is a good reason to start investigating further. A man frustrated at getting a virus on his PC (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Steps to remove a virus from your PCRealizing you have a virus can be scary, but theres no need to panic. Heres what to do next.1. Disconnect from the internet:This helps prevent the virus from spreading or communicating with its server.2. Enter safe mode:Restart your PC and pressF8 (orShift + F8) before Windows starts to load.SelectSafe Mode with Networking. This mode loads only the essential drivers and services.3. Run a virus scan:Usestrong antivirus software to run a full system scan.Install antivirus software as early as possible to safeguard against malicious links, phishing emails, ransomware and malware that can compromise your private information.The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?4. Delete or quarantine infected files:Follow the instructions provided by your antivirus software to delete or quarantine any detected threats.5. Clear temporary files:Use the Disk Cleanup tool to delete temporary files that might harbor the virus.PressWindows + R, typecleanmgr and pressEnter. Select the drive you want to clean and follow the prompts.6. Reset browser settings:Reset your web browser to its default settings to remove any malicious extensions or settings changes.In Chrome, go toSettings >Advanced >Reset and clean up >Restore settings to their original defaults.In Firefox, go toHelp >Troubleshooting Information >Refresh Firefox.InEdge: Go toSettings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values.7. Check Startup ProgramsViruses often embed themselves in startup programs.Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.Navigate to the Startup tab and disable any unfamiliar or suspicious programs.8. Update your software:Ensure your operating system, antivirus software and all other programs areup to date to protect against future threats. Updates often include security patches to protect against known vulnerabilities.9. Backup your data:Regularlyback up your important files to an external drive or cloud storage to prevent data loss in case of future infections.Tips to avoid future virusesHeres how to be proactive about protecting your PC from viruses down the road.Use safe browsing practices: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources.Enable firewall: Make sure your firewall is enabled to block unauthorized access to your computer.Download apps and software from trusted sites only: Check the number of downloads, as more suggests greater reliability.Use a secure VPN connection: Mask your IP address with a trusted VPN (virtual private network) service to secure your online activity. Many sites can read your IP address and, depending on their privacy settings, may display the city from which you are corresponding. A VPN will disguise your IP address to show an alternate location. Illustration of protecting your technology (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Kurts key takeawaysBy following these steps, you can effectively remove a virus from your PC and protect your data. Staying vigilant and practicing good cybersecurity habits will help safeguard your system from future threats.What other PC issues would you like help with? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? 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