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Virus Removal

Virus & Malware Removal in Dumfries

Removing malware, pop-ups, browser hijackers and unwanted software.

Book an appointment Call 07375 227793
  • Remote or drop-off
  • Qualified & insured
  • 20+ years in IT
  • 4.9★ from 50+ Google reviews

Malware ranges from annoying adware and browser hijackers to scams that pretend to be Microsoft or your bank. I clean the infection out properly, check nothing has been left behind, and make sure your security software is doing its job.

If you think you have been scammed, for example by someone who phoned and asked to access your computer, get in touch straight away. Switch the computer off and don’t log in to online banking on it until it has been checked.

Virus & Malware Removal in Dumfries: Computer Fixer workshop

Explained

Viruses, malware and scams: what’s the difference?

“Virus” has become a catch-all word, but most problems I see today are adware, browser hijackers and unwanted programs that sneak in alongside free downloads. They’re designed to show you adverts, redirect your searches or nag you into paying for fake “fixes”. They’re irritating and slow your computer down, but they can be removed cleanly.

More serious are tech-support scams. A caller or a pop-up claims your computer is infected and persuades you to let them connect. Once in, they may install their own remote access tools, lock you out or ask for payment. If that has happened, the computer needs a thorough check, and your passwords and bank should be dealt with too.

My promise

  • Honest advice, even if it means spending less
  • Your files backed up before any major work
  • Options and cost explained before I start

How to spot a fake warning

Scam pop-ups are designed to look official and make you panic.

Signs it’s a scam

  • Gives you a phone number to call
  • Loud alarms or a countdown timer
  • Says your computer is “locked” or “blocked”
  • Asks you to install software or pay to fix it

What to do instead

  • Don’t call the number or click anything
  • Close the browser (Ctrl + Shift + Esc if it won’t close)
  • Never let an unexpected caller connect to your PC
  • Get in touch with someone you trust to check it

What I do

How I can help

Full malware clean-up

Scanning with several tools, removing infections, unwanted programs and browser extensions, and repairing settings they have changed.

Scam recovery

If a scammer has had remote access, I remove their tools, check for anything left behind and advise on passwords and your bank.

Protection set-up

I make sure Windows Security or your antivirus is running and up to date, and that updates are installing.

Plain-English advice

Simple tips on spotting fake warnings, dodgy emails and scam calls so it’s less likely to happen again.

Remote or drop-off? Some infections can be cleaned by remote support. If a scammer has had access, I usually recommend bringing the machine in. Can’t get to the shop? I can collect and return it, or visit you at home or work. About remote support

“I tried James as I was looking for a better option for computer repair. He is the best and most reasonably priced guy I have come across. Very helpful, advising and guiding and doing the job in short order. For anybody, like me, who managed to screw up their computers I would recommend him.”
MacRoy Spencer · Google review · 4.9★ from 50+ Google reviews

Free advice

Try this first

A few things worth trying yourself before you get in touch. If they don’t do the trick, I’m happy to help.

  1. 01

    Keep Windows updated

    Updates fix the security holes that malware uses. Let them install, even when it’s inconvenient.

  2. 02

    Download carefully

    Get software from the official website or the Microsoft Store, and untick any “extra offers” during installation.

  3. 03

    Hover before you click

    In emails, hover over links to see where they really go. If the address looks odd, don’t click.

  4. 04

    Use different passwords

    A password manager makes it easy. If one account is breached, the rest stay safe.

How it works

What happens when you get in touch

  1. 1

    Tell me the problem

    Book online, log a job, call or drop in. Describe what’s happening in your own words.

  2. 2

    Honest diagnosis

    I find the real cause, whether that’s on a remote session or on the bench.

  3. 3

    Agree before any work

    You hear the options and likely cost first. Nothing goes ahead without your OK.

  4. 4

    Fixed, tested, explained

    The job is done properly, checked, and explained in plain English.

FAQ

Virus Removal: common questions

More answers on my FAQ page.

Microsoft phoned to say my computer has a virus. Is that real?

No. Microsoft does not phone people about viruses. If you let the caller in to your computer, stop using it for banking, contact your bank, and get the computer checked.

Do I need to pay for antivirus?

For most home users, the Windows Security built into Windows 10 and 11 is enough when it’s kept up to date. I’ll tell you if your situation needs more.

Will I lose my files when the virus is removed?

Normally not. Malware removal targets the unwanted software, not your documents and photos. If a full reinstall is needed, I back your files up first.

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Computer giving you trouble? Let’s get it sorted.

Give me a call. I'm James, and I'll tell you straight whether it needs remote support, a drop-off or a repair slot. No drama.

Book an appointment Call 07375 227793

Prefer to type it out? Log a job online or message me on Facebook.

Qualified · Insured · 20+ years in IT · Ex-Royal Signals · 4.9★ from 50+ Google reviews