My computer has a virus

John Lesch 0 Reputation points
2026-09-19T18:37:30.1666667+00:00

How to eliminate virus from my computer. I have Microsoft account and Microsoft defender did not eliminate viruses

Microsoft Security | Microsoft Defender | Other
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  1. Bence Weiszmann 1,815 Reputation points
    2026-09-19T20:59:54.2433333+00:00

    Dear @John Lesch

    1. First go to: Windows Security --› Virus & threat protection --› Scan options --› Microsoft Defender Offline scan --› Scan now. (Save open work first, as the PC will restart to perform the scan.)
    2. After the scan, check Windows Security --› Virus & threat protection --› Protection history to see what was detected and what action was taken.

    If the malware is still detected, you can also run the Microsoft Safety Scanner as a second on-demand scan. Microsoft provides it here.

    Best regards,
    Bence

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  2. AI answer

    2026-09-19T18:37:44.8733333+00:00
    1. Run a full malware scan before changing anything else:
      • Open Windows Security.
      • Go to Virus and threat protection.
      • Select Scan options > Full scan > Scan now.
    2. If Microsoft Defender still does not remove the threat, run Microsoft Safety Scanner. Microsoft recommends it when infection is suspected, and it can detect and remove many common issues.
    3. Check Windows security status:
      • Select Start.
      • Type Check security status.
      • Open Check security status to review whether protection features are enabled.
    4. Make sure only one antivirus or antispyware product is installed. Running more than one at the same time can reduce performance, cause instability, or trigger unexpected restarts.
      • Go to Start > Settings > Apps.
      • Find any unwanted antivirus or antispyware app.
      • Select it, then choose Uninstall.
      • A restart may be required after each uninstall.
    5. Important: after removing any third-party security software, make sure Microsoft Defender Antivirus is enabled and Windows Firewall is turned on. Removing security software can leave the PC unprotected.
    6. If the PC behavior still suggests malware after scanning, use Microsoft’s virus and security support resources for additional cleanup guidance.

    If the Microsoft account may also be affected, first clear malware from the PC, then change or reset the account password.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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