If you have been infected by a virus, or Malware, the first thing that should be done is to unplug the infected PC from the network. This keeps the virus/malware from propagating to other PCs on the network. Make sure you have, or get, some kind of updated Anti-Virus and Malware protection to handle this before plugging back in.

If you do not have any protection, removing the infection will be considerably more complicated.  Most anti-virus programs will give you a "common" name of the virus and remove it automatically. If the program can not remove it, at least you will have a place to start with a name.  Once you have a name, you can find a removal tool with Google. Most anti-virus products will point you in the right direction to get you going.  Be aware that there are some products that use false-positives as a sales tool.  Sticking to brand-name products is recommended.

Of course having a front line of defence is the best policy for home and businesses alike. Occasionally a virus can still slip through and create havoc.  Especially if it is from an off-shore location.  There is a lag between the creation and the detection of new viruses in that case.

Viruses/Malware can slip by in a variety of ways.  Most commonly it will happen when you are surfing the web.  When you click on a pop-up window to close it, you may actually be starting an install program without knowing.  Another possibility is using free peer to peer file sharing software like Limewire and the like.  Email is also a very common way viruses can get in unnoticed.  Don't open any attachments that you are not sure of.  Turning off the automatic preview feature of you messages helps minimize launching the infection program.

Most anti-virus programs can catch a virus/malware before it can do any damage and remove it. Having your anti-virus program scan your PC at least once a week, or even better daily/nightly, if possible, is essential.  Remember you can spread viruses through the use of removable media. Don't forget to scan any USB Flash Drives, or other removable media you might use, at more than one PC.  Do this before you bring it to the office or use it on a network.
 
In summary, a few thing to remember, if you think your system may be infected, and to keep your system from getting infected are:

• Unplug an infected PC from the network as soon as you suspect it is infected.

• Scan your PC daily, nightly if possible

• Get a well-known brand of anti-virus/malware program - CCS Retail Systems can help you with this.

• Make sure to update your software (Including Windows) on a regular basis - Most software programs can do this automatically, It is always good to check that this is being done.

• If you still think your system is infected, drop it off at CCS Retail Systems. We can help you get your system clean.

• If your anti-virus software alerts you of a possible infection, do not ignore it. Read what the alert is telling you. If you are unsure, have the software remove (quarantine) it., If it turns out to be a false positive (rare but does happen) it can usually be restored.

As always, you can email or call the CCS Retail Systems Support Dept. for some guidance on providing the proper software. We can help in removing and cleaning your system of all viruses and malware.

Together we can accomplish anything
-Bryan