Pop-ups warning that Microsoft has detected a virus? Browser keeps redirecting to strange sites? Fake-support phone numbers on screen? Do not call the number — bring the computer in and we will clean it up properly.
Most 'virus' problems people see today are not really classic viruses — they are scams designed to scare you into calling a fake support number or paying for unnecessary software. We deal with them calmly.
Big red warning, scary noise, fake phone number, claim your computer is locked. These are scams. Do not call the number. Bring the computer in and we will clean it down properly.
Browser opens to a different page, searches go through a different engine, ads everywhere. These are usually unwanted browser extensions or malware. We remove them properly.
Pop-ups demanding you install or renew a security product you have never heard of. These are designed to get money or remote access. We remove them and recommend something legitimate.
Genuine viruses and trojans still exist. Where they have caused damage, we restore what we can and advise on whether a fresh Windows install is the safer course of action.
Files locked with a ransom demand. We will set honest expectations — sometimes the files are recoverable, often they are not. Bring the device in quickly.
Sometimes the only sign is the computer behaving oddly. We can check and tell you whether there is genuinely something wrong or whether it is normal age-related slowdown.
No fear-driven upsells. We tell you straight whether you have a real infection or just a nasty-looking pop-up that vanishes on a browser reset.
We clean the device properly rather than just hiding the symptoms. Where a fresh install is the safer route, we will say so and explain why.
We explain how the device got infected and what to watch out for — not to scare you, just so it is less likely to happen again.
Switch the computer off, do not turn it back on, and bring it in. Change any important passwords from a different device (phone, tablet, another computer). We will assess what has happened.
For most home users, Windows Defender plus sensible habits is genuinely fine. Be wary of anyone telling you that you must buy expensive security suites — most are unnecessary.
Usually no. In severe infections we may recommend a fresh Windows install for safety, in which case we copy your files across cleanly. We will always discuss this before doing it.
Almost always an unwanted browser extension or 'helper' that came in with a free download. We can remove it and tell you which browsers are which.
Macs are less frequently infected, but it does happen — and Macs are equally vulnerable to scam pop-ups and dodgy browser extensions. We help with those too.
Call Advantec Computing on 01580 764404 for friendly, honest advice — or bring your device to our Tenterden repair shop.