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.

Signs your PC has a virus 

There 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. 

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Another warning sign is the appearance of unfamiliar apps or programs that you don’t remember installing. Additionally, if your usual programs start crashing frequently or behaving oddly, it’s 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)

WINDOW USERS ARE BEING TRICKED BY SNEAKY MALWARE SCHEME

Steps to remove a virus from your PC

Realizing you have a virus can be scary, but there’s no need to panic. Here’s 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 press F8 (or Shift + F8) before Windows starts to load.
• Select Safe Mode with Networking. This mode loads only the essential drivers and services.

3. Run a virus scan:

• Use strong 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.

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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.
• Press Windows + R, type cleanmgr and press Enter. 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 to Settings > Advanced > Reset and clean up > Restore settings to their original defaults.
• In Firefox, go to Help > Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox.
• In Edge: Go to Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values.

7. Check Startup Programs

• Viruses 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 are up to date to protect against future threats. Updates often include security patches to protect against known vulnerabilities.

9. Backup your data:

HOW TO REMOVE MALWARE ON A PC

Tips to avoid future viruses 

Here’s 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. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

Illustration of protecting your technology (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Kurt’s key takeaways 

By 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.

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Jan 16, 2025, 1:25 PM UTC

Prosthetic hands have long struggled to replicate the dexterity and functionality of natural hands, often limiting users to a single grasp function at a time. 

This limitation has made everyday tasks, such as typing on a keyboard or braiding hair, challenging for those who rely on prosthetics. 

However, a groundbreaking study from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) offers promising advancements that could transform the experience of prosthetic hand users.

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New technology enables users to grasp two objects at once

Researchers at FAU’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, in collaboration with the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, conducted an innovative study that combined haptic feedback, electromyogram control and a wearable soft robotic armband. This study aimed to investigate whether users could control grip forces applied to two different objects simultaneously with a dexterous artificial hand.

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The study’s findings, published in Scientific Reports, demonstrated that multiple channels of haptic feedback allowed participants to successfully grasp and transport two objects at once without dropping them, even when visual feedback was obstructed.

For example, participants managed to pinch a card between their fingers while simultaneously unscrewing a water bottle lid or toggling a light switch with their little finger.

Prosthetic robot hand (Florida Atlantic University)

NEW PROSTHETICS RESTORE NATURAL MOVEMENT VIA NERVE CONNECTION

Multichannel soft robotic armband

A key innovation in this research was the development of a multichannel soft robotic armband designed to convey artificial sensations of touch. This armband included soft actuators that provided proportional contact force feedback and vibrotactile stimulators that alerted users if they were about to drop or break an object. The armband’s design allowed it to deliver haptic feedback at three critical points corresponding to the thumb, index and little fingers, effectively enhancing the user’s ability to control multiple objects simultaneously.

Participants in the study reported that haptic feedback was significantly more important than visual feedback, especially since visual cues often failed to indicate when an object was about to be lost. This insight underscores the necessity of integrating tactile sensations into prosthetic technology.

Prosthetic robot hand (Florida Atlantic University)

BREAKTHROUGH PROSTHETIC FINGERS REVOLUTIONIZE THE LIVES OF AMPUTEES

Implications for future prosthetic design

The implications of this study extend beyond immediate user benefits; they suggest a paradigm shift in how prosthetic hands could be controlled in the future. By enabling refined dexterous control through enhanced sensory feedback, this research opens new pathways for individuals with upper limb loss to engage in complex tasks traditionally deemed impossible with current prosthetics. This includes activities such as playing musical instruments or performing intricate surgical procedures.

In addition, the researchers noted that participants with limb loss performed as well as able-bodied subjects in key performance metrics during the tasks. This finding is particularly encouraging for clinical applications and indicates that advancements in technology can bridge gaps in functionality for users.

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Prosthetic robot hand (Florida Atlantic University)

COULD THESE EXOSKELETON ‘POWERED PANTS’ MAKE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES EASIER IN THE FUTURE?

Kurt’s key takeaways

As researchers continue to refine these prosthetic technology systems, we may soon see prosthetic hands that not only replicate but exceed the capabilities of natural hands, empowering users to reclaim their independence and engage fully in both everyday activities and specialized tasks. This innovative approach not only addresses existing limitations but also paves the way for future developments in assistive technologies for individuals with disabilities.

What personal experiences or stories do you have related to the use of prosthetics or assistive devices? 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.

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Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

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