Virus and Malware Removal

Virus, Spyware and other Malware Removal

Computer viruses, spyware, and other malware are programs that infect your computer and cause it not to function properly. If the above image looks similar to what you are currently experiencing you may have been infected.

There are many kinds of malware programs, but they all fall into one (or sometimes more) of the following categories:

• True Viruses
• Worms
• Trojans
• Adware
• Advertising Spyware
• Spyware Downloaders
• Remote Access Trojans

Common Malware

The most common malware programs affecting computers at present are advertising spyware and remote access Trojans. These programs take skills honed by former “script kiddies” and apply them to making money. True viruses are still out there, but advertising spyware and RATs are becoming much more common.

Advertising spyware

Advertising spyware is malicious software that installs itself on your computer and keeps track of your activities so it can determine which advertisements you are most likely to respond to. It then causes ads of this type to be displayed on your Web browser, or automatically opens windows to advertisers’ sites. Sometimes these programs can also change your Web browser’s home page (“hijackers”) or replace legitimate ads on sites you visit with their own ads (“parasites”).

Some very creatively written spyware programs use “rootkit” technology to stealth their presence and operation. These programs are extremely difficult to remove and require professional help.

Remote Access Trojans

RATs are programs that allow your computer to be controlled by another party, or make it part of a network of computers performing malicious work. In most cases, RATs are used to enable spammers, identity thieves, and other criminals to utilise other people’s computers to do their dirty work. In addition to harnessing the power of many more computers than they actually own, using RATs enables these criminals to avoid detection, because the malicious activity will trace back to the infected computers, not to themselves.

Malware Removal

Virus, spyware, and other malware removal is highly skilled work requiring specialised software and up-to-the-minute knowledge of the latest malware trends. Perth Computer and Laptop Repairs are proud to offer this service and take pride in “disinfecting” your devices.

To make an appointment, please contact us. Or if you prefer, simply stop by. We’re always happy to see you!