How can I tell if I have a problem?

There are some signals users may see which may indicate trouble, both from a virus and from spyware:

• Your computer suddenly seems to be running much more slowly.
• Your Internet connection is busy sending data even when you don't have a browser or e-mail client open. You also need to make sure that neither Windows nor your antivirus software is looking for updates before being sure this is a problem.
• If you can't get your browser to open the Symantec or McAfee web sites (www.symantec.com and www.mcafee.com) but can reach other sites, you have a virus.
• Your computer begins locking up more frequently.
• When you open your browser it takes you to a "home page" that you never selected and when you try to change it, it doesn't work.
• If your antivirus software program won't run, there may be a problem with the program but it also could be caused by a virus.
• You are pestered by popup, browser-style windows trying to sell you things, it may be due to some adware running on your system. If these messages pop up even when you don't have Internet Explorer open, it's almost certainly due to adware.

Windows has a feature which allows you to see what connections your computer is maintaining with the Internet. It can be a useful and quick way to see if you have viruses or spyware connecting to the Internet.

Open a Command Prompt (you'll find it listed on the Accessories menu). Type "netstat" (without the quotes) and hit enter. You'll see a list of all the connections your computer is maintaining. Don't worry about the ones with "localhost" in the name; they are just connections internal to the computer. Look for any others listed; you may see your mail server or the address of a web page you have open in your browser. Others may be an indication of a virus, spyware or tracking cookie.

Go the clean up page for information on how to get your computer operating properly.