Is Your Computer Infected? Signs You Have a Virus or Malware

Malicious software is sneaky — it often runs in the background without obvious symptoms until the damage is done. At Bull City Mobile Repair in Durham, NC, we remove viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware, and adware from laptops and desktops of all brands. Here's what to watch for.

Warning Signs Your PC Has a Virus or Malware

• Sudden slowness — computer is dramatically slower than usual with no clear reason
• Pop-up ads everywhere — ads appearing even when no browser is open
• Browser redirects — searches redirect to unfamiliar or suspicious websites
• New programs you didn't install — unfamiliar software or toolbars appearing
• High CPU or memory usage — Task Manager shows unknown processes using 50–100% of resources
• Files missing or renamed — especially with unusual extensions (possible ransomware)
• Fake security alerts — pop-ups claiming your PC is infected and urging you to call a number or pay
• Webcam light turning on randomly — possible spyware or remote access trojan
• Antivirus turned off — malware commonly disables Windows Defender or other antivirus software

Types of Malware We Remove

• Viruses — self-replicating programs that attach to files and spread
• Ransomware — encrypts your files and demands payment for decryption
• Spyware — secretly monitors your activity and steals personal data
• Adware — generates unwanted ads and redirects
• Trojans — malicious software disguised as legitimate programs
• Rootkits — deep system infections that hide from standard detection tools
• Browser hijackers — take over your browser settings and redirect traffic
• Keyloggers — record your keystrokes to capture passwords and sensitive info

What We Do During a Malware Removal Service

1. Full system scan — multiple antivirus and anti-malware tools to catch everything
2. Manual inspection — we check startup programs, processes, and browser extensions by hand
3. Malware removal — safe removal of all identified threats
4. System cleanup — remove junk files, temp data, and leftover malware traces
5. Security setup — ensure Windows Defender or antivirus is properly configured going forward
6. Performance optimization — disable startup bloatware that slows down your PC

? Ransomware Warning

If your files appear encrypted or you see a ransom note, do not pay the ransom. Bring the computer in immediately — in some cases we can recover files without paying through backup restoration or decryption tools published by cybersecurity researchers.

Bring Your PC to Bull City Mobile Repair in Durham

Walk in at 4201 University Drive #105, Durham, NC 27707. Open Monday–Saturday, 10am–6pm. Free diagnostic consultation. Call (919) 937-9703.