Virus, locked screen or suspicious pop-up: repair in Geneva
Computer showing a locked screen at start-up, window asking you to call a "technical support" number, browser flooded with adverts, computer suddenly very slow: these are the faults I see most often. I clean, I secure, and I explain how to stop it happening again.
A pop-up asking you to call a number?
Don't call. Real technical support (Swisscom, Microsoft, Apple or other) never shows you a message asking you to call urgently: it is a scam designed to make you pay for a fake repair or to take remote control of your computer. Close the window (or switch the computer off if it won't close) and call me instead.
What I do
- Diagnosis to identify a virus, malware or a simple slowdown.
- Removal of viruses, malicious software and unwanted adverts.
- Browser clean-up: unknown extensions, changed home page.
- Clean reinstall if the infection is too deep to clean.
- Installation of a suitable antivirus and system update.
- Simple explanation of what happened and how to avoid it next time.
Call 078 733 94 96 and describe what you see on the screen.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my computer has a virus?
The most common signs: sudden slowdown, advertising pop-ups, browser home page changed without your doing, fan running hard even when idle, or antivirus that switched itself off.
My files are encrypted and a ransom is demanded. What should I do?
Do not switch the computer off abruptly and do not pay anything before getting advice. This kind of attack (ransomware) is rare for individuals but serious: I run the diagnosis and, if needed, point you to the right steps.
Do I need to pay for an antivirus, or is the free version enough?
For everyday use, good configuration (up-to-date updates, caution with attachments and links) often matters more than the price of the antivirus. I recommend a solution suited to your actual use, without selling you more than necessary.