If you get pop-ups on your computer telling you it has a virus - do not click on them, as they could be part of a scam.
Got anti-virus software? Run a scan and follow the steps on screen to remove any malicious software detected.
Some viruses can stop anti-virus software working. If this is the case, or you don't have anti-virus software, visit Microsoft.com/security/scanner. Use the free scanner then bin any dodgy items highlighted.
If you cannot access the internet to download the programme, restart the machine and when you see the logo of the PC maker, hit the F8 key until the Advanced Boot Options are displayed on-screen. You may need to hit the F8 key several times in quick succession until this appears. Select Safe Mode With Networking using the arrow keys and press Enter. Once the machine has booted, follow the steps above to download and run Microsoft's Security Scanner. If Security Scanner fails to identify and remove the virus, try another free virus removal tool, such as Norton Power Eraser or ESET Online Scanner.
Once the virus has been removed, install anti-virus software on your computer if you don't already have it, run regular scans, don't open attachments or emails from strangers and only download software from trusted sites, to help your computer stay virus free in the future.
Feature in Good Housekeeping, February 2016.
