We will attempt to remove all malicious software from your computer(s). Malicious software or "malware" covers a wide range of unwanted applications such as viruses, worms, trojans, spyware and rootkits. As the name suggests, the result of a malicious software application being installed on your computer can vary from a mere annoyance to destructive or a potential breach of privacy. Malware can be responsible for one or more of the following:
- Theft of financial details (e.g. on-line banking)
- Corrupt or change important operating system files
- Slow down your computer or cause it to periodically crash for no obvious reason
- Alter an Internet browser (e.g. Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Internet Explorer) to behave erratically
- Display illicit, fake, pornographic or offensive "pop-up" adverts.
Malware is extremely common and new or updated versions appear frequently and consequently it is very easy to become infected. 
It can also be very deceptive and - what appears to be a perfectly innocent (and often useful) application - can be loaded with malware waiting to corrupt your system.
The most common causes of infection are via e-mail messages (with attachments) or a USB stick drive. Unfortunately, even an e-mail from a friend or family can contain malware. This is often the case when the sender of the e-mail is unaware his/her computer is infected.
Web sites, IM (instant messaging) clients (e.g. Microsoft Live Messenger, ICQ etc.), P2P (peer to peer) clients (e.g. Limewire, µTorrent etc.) are also potential sources of infection. Sadly, malware programmers often target the younger or less experienced users with an offer of a free download (e.g. animated "smilies" or cursors) that install unwanted malware in the background to track web usage, steal confidential information and/or display unwanted adverts.
What can I do?
As malware is constantly evolving and new versions are appearing daily, no one can guarantee to remove all malware from your computer(s). In most situations, our method of using an extensive range of anti-malware software to thoroughly inspect your computer, identify and attempt to removal threats is normally successful. We use our extensive experience to ensure that re-infection is less likely and install (and demonstrate) free anti-virus and malware clients to help protect your computer(s) in future.
In some cases the malware running your computer may permanently damage the operating system (e.g. Microsoft Windows) and we may need to completely re-install from scratch. If this is the case, we can help you back up your data then restore your computer to factory settings. If this is the case, we will ask for the operating system CD/DVD which was supplied with your computer when you purchased it.
Please note that - under no circumstances - can we be liable for data loss should the operating system need to be re-installed. We strongly recommend that you back up your data on a separate medium (e.g. DVD, on-line or an external hard drive) on a regular basis.If you wish to use this service, please use this enquiry form. We will require as much information as possible when preparing an estimate so it is important that you have any documentation which came with your computer to hand.
