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Computer Virus Malware Scan and Removal Service
near me

       The Computer Repair Connection offers virus and malware removal services. We've found that when customers think they have a virus, it's because they know their computer is acting different. Sometimes it is indeed malware, viruses, or spyware and other times it's a failing device. Viruses can be responsible for many unwanted actions ranging from annoying fake "virus scans", which slow the system down, to complete destruction or encryption of personal files from ransomware like the infamous CryptoLocker. As more of our volatile data is stored on computers, our need for regular vigilance to protect our data increases.

 

       If you think your computer may have viruses, don't risk your computer integrity or data, turn your computer off immediately and stop by for a complete diagnostic and malware scan. Quotes are given within 1-2 business days (Unless Using Same Day Service), at which time you can approve or decline the repair. We're conveniently located in south Austin, Texas, right off the Ben White frontage road near Menchaca Rd.

 

Declined repairs are subject to diagnostic fee of $19 for laptops and $49 for desktops, but free for approved repairs. Click on the check-in button below to get started or just stop by, as walk-ins are welcome.

Computer Virus/Malware Information

Computer viruses have a long and intriguing history, starting from the early days of computing. Here's a brief overview of the history of computer viruses:

  1. Early Experiments (1970s-1980s): The concept of a computer virus emerged in the 1970s when programmers began experimenting with self-replicating code. One of the earliest examples was the "Creeper" virus, created in 1971, which infected mainframe computers and displayed the message "I'm the creeper, catch me if you can!" Later, in 1982, the "Elk Cloner" virus targeted Apple II computers, spreading through infected floppy disks.

  2. The Morris Worm (1988): The Morris Worm, created by Robert Tappan Morris, was one of the first significant computer viruses to affect the early internet. It spread across interconnected Unix systems, exploiting vulnerabilities and causing system slowdowns. The Morris Worm's unintended rapid replication led to widespread disruptions and raised awareness about the potential dangers of computer viruses.

  3. Macro Viruses (1990s): In the 1990s, as office productivity software became prevalent, macro viruses emerged as a prominent threat. These viruses infected documents and spreadsheets, utilizing macro programming languages such as Microsoft Word's Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). The "Melissa" virus (1999) and the "ILOVEYOU" virus (2000) were notable macro viruses that caused significant damage by spreading rapidly via email attachments.

  4. Worms and Blended Threats (2000s): The 2000s saw an increase in the sophistication of malware, particularly with the rise of worms and blended threats. The "Code Red" worm (2001) and the "SQL Slammer" worm (2003) exploited vulnerabilities in network software, infecting millions of systems within hours. Blended threats combined various techniques, such as email attachments, network exploits, and social engineering, to propagate and compromise systems.

  5. Ransomware and Advanced Persistent Threats (2010s-2020s): The 2010s witnessed the emergence of ransomware, a type of malware that encrypts files and demands a ransom for their release. Cryptolocker (2013) and WannaCry (2017) were highly impactful ransomware attacks that affected individuals, businesses, and even critical infrastructure. The 2010s also saw the rise of advanced persistent threats (APTs), sophisticated and targeted attacks often attributed to nation-state actors.

  6. Evolving Threat Landscape: In recent years, computer viruses and malware continue to evolve and adapt to technological advancements. Cybercriminals employ various techniques, including social engineering, phishing attacks, drive-by downloads, and fileless malware, to exploit vulnerabilities in software and systems. The threat landscape encompasses not only traditional computers but also mobile devices, IoT devices, and cloud-based environments.

As the field of cybersecurity continues to evolve, security measures and defenses have also improved to mitigate the risks posed by computer viruses. Antivirus software, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and user education play crucial roles in combating the ever-evolving threat of computer viruses.

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