laurab config

[laurab]

My computer has been running slower than usual. I was thinking of doing a re-format, but I am scared of losing things.

Last night "System Care Antivirus" entered my system and I used the first two stages here: http://malwaretips.com/blogs/system-care-antivirus-removal/ to fix the issue. The third program wouldn't download properly.

I am just wondering what sort of software I should download to protect myself from further virus getting into my system?

 

[Ink]

If you're having trouble with the self-help guides, I recommend getting assistance here:
https://malwaretips.com/forums/malware-removal-assistance-for-windows.10/
PS: If you're going to reformat and start from scratch, see below.

Welcome. Before downloading and installing more software, I strongly recommend reducing your chances to exploits or other vulnerabilities.

Find out what Windows are you running:
1. Open the Run command (Win key + R)
2. Type "msinfo32" (without quotes) and press the Enter key
3. A 'System Information' window will be displayed with the 'OS Name'.

Backup
Copy all your personal data to an external hard drive, ie. Documents, Music, Videos etc.

Before clean installation:
1. Check you have your OS installation disc on-hand and working.
2. Have your license key ready to activate, after installation.

I would hold off from recommendations, until you know what you're going to do first.

 

[laurab]

Thank you. I don't think I'll be reformatting at this stage, as things seem to be running smoothly again.

I was directed to this forum when I wasn't sure of what programs to have installed to protect myself from future malware/viruses.

Any advice? I have Avira at the moment but apparently that's not enough.

 

[Ink]

1. Did you find out what OS you have installed (see my previous post)?

2. You mention McAfee and Avira installed, however it's recommended to run only 1 Antivirus software. Since you want to replace Avira, here's a tool to help you remove McAfee.
Click here for the McAfee Removal tool, or direct download link (save to desktop):

http://download.mcafee.com/products/licensed/cust_support_patches/MCPR.exe

3. Clean up your browser plugins and uninstall any you don't need or use.
My recommendations is to uninstall all of the following:
- Adobe Acrobat
- iTunes Application Detector
- Java Deployment Toolkit
- Java(TM) Platform SE
- McAfee Security Scanner
- QuickTime Plug-In
- Shockwave Flash
- Siverlight
- VLC Web Plugin
You can use an uninstaller like IObit Uninstaller (trusted download mirror) to help remove any left-over files or registry keys during standard uninstallation.

5. Are you looking for an Antivirus or Internet Suite? Free or Paid?

Hope this helps a bit. :biggrin:

 

[McLovin]

Like Earth said in the above post, uninstall a couple of programs. The ones that I have a thing for is Java, any reason for that being installed? Do you game? like Minecraft as that uses Java? Also instead of using Firefox for 64 bit machines, I would recommend swapping to Waterfox. Much more stable for a 64 bit machine.