Virus and malware removal Hawthorn
If your computer is acting strangely — running slowly for no obvious reason, showing pop-ups you can’t get rid of, redirecting your browser to sites you didn’t ask for, or behaving in ways that just feel off — there’s a reasonable chance something unwanted has found its way onto it. Viruses, malware, ransomware, spyware, adware, browser hijackers: they all look a bit different, but they all need to come off.
We remove malware and viruses from Windows PCs, laptops, and Macs, and we make sure the device is actually clean before it comes back to you — not just surface-level clean. We’ll also check what got in and how, so the same thing doesn’t happen again.
Table of Contents
Signs your computer might be infected
Infections don't always announce themselves. Here's what to watch for:
- Computer running much slower than usual for no obvious reason
- Pop-up ads appearing constantly, even when no browser is open
- Browser homepage or search engine changed without you doing it
- Programs opening or closing on their own
- Antivirus software disabled or unable to run a scan
- Files missing, renamed, or inaccessible
- Files encrypted with a ransom demand on screen
- Unusual outgoing network activity or data usage
- Frequent crashes, freezes, or error messages that weren't happening before
- Someone has accessed your email or accounts without your knowledge
- A warning message claiming your computer is infected and asking you to call a number or pay immediately
That last one is worth calling out separately. A pop-up that claims your device is infected and tells you to call a support number or pay to fix it is almost always a scam. Don't call the number. Bring the device in and we'll check what's actually on it.
If you're unsure, call us on 03 9822 3481 — we can usually help you work out over the phone whether it sounds like a genuine infection.
What kinds of malware are we talking about?
Malware is a broad term that covers a lot of different threats. The main ones we see:
- Viruses — malicious programs that attach to files and spread when those files are opened or shared
- Ransomware — encrypts your files and demands payment to restore access. Targeting of home users and small businesses in Australia has been rising steadily
- Spyware — quietly monitors what you do, capturing passwords, banking details, and personal information
- Adware — floods your browser with ads and can redirect searches, often bundled with free software downloads
- Trojans — disguise themselves as legitimate programs and open a backdoor for attackers once installed
- Browser hijackers — take over your browser settings, changing your homepage, search engine, or injecting ads into pages
- Scareware — fake security warnings designed to frighten you into paying for a fake fix or calling a scam support line
Most of these get in the same handful of ways: a dodgy email attachment, a malicious link, a free software download that came with extras, or an unpatched operating system that left a door open.
What we can do for you
A proper malware removal job isn't just running an antivirus scan and calling it done. Some infections specifically disable or evade standard antivirus tools, and some leave behind components that will reinstall the main threat if you don't remove everything. We work through the device methodically to make sure it's fully clean, not just temporarily quiet.
One thing we see regularly is people who've been infected through a fake tech support scam — a pop-up appears claiming the computer has a virus, they call the number, and the "technician" on the line talks them into installing remote access software. By the time they realise what's happened, there's genuine malware on the machine and sometimes financial information has been compromised. If this has happened to you, bring the device in promptly and change your passwords from a different device in the meantime.
- Full malware and virus scan and removal, including deep removal of persistent threats
- Ransomware assessment — in some cases files can be recovered depending on the variant
- Removal of browser hijackers and adware, including browser reset
- Removal of fake antivirus and scareware programs
- Checking and removing remote access tools installed without your knowledge
- Antivirus setup and configuration so you have proper protection going forward
- Advice on what allowed the infection and how to avoid a repeat
For anything involving encrypted files, also see our Data Recovery page — in some ransomware cases there are recovery options worth exploring.
Can't make it in? Ed covers onsite repairs across Melbourne's inner east and north — book a time online and he'll come to you. For business customers dealing with an active infection, onsite is often the better option.
Why come to us for your Virus and Malware removal in Hawthorn?
Expertise
We've seen a lot of infections over the years — from standard adware bundled with free downloads through to more serious ransomware and remote access trojans. We know the difference between a surface clean and a thorough one, and we don't hand the device back until we're confident it's actually clear.
No Guesswork
We scan and assess before recommending anything. If there's been deeper compromise — credential theft, data exposure — we'll flag it honestly and help you figure out the right next steps, including whether you need to notify anyone.
Honest Pricing
Clear quote before any work starts. No upselling unnecessary software or ongoing subscription services you don't need. All work comes with a warranty.
Virus and Malware - Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions we get asked. You might find it helpful to read through.
For minor infections, sometimes yes. But a lot of malware is specifically designed to disable, evade, or work around standard antivirus tools. If your antivirus won’t run, keeps getting disabled, or you’ve run a scan that found nothing but the symptoms are still there, that’s a sign something more thorough is needed. A scan that says “no threats found” isn’t always the same as a clean machine.
