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Virus and Malware Removal


Virus and Malware Removal
If your computer is Kenyon-owned, contact Helpline immediately if you suspect a virus or malware infection. Helpline staff will walk you through initial diagnostics and escalate the issue to professional IT staff for further evaluation.

Helpline does not perform malware or virus removal on personal computers. However, IT staff can answer questions and offer guidance. Use the instructions below to check for and remove malware using Microsoft Defender.
1. Keep Your Operating System Updated
System updates contain essential security patches that defend your computer against newly discovered threats. Ensure automatic updates are enabled:
  • macOS: Navigate to Apple Menu > System Settings > General > Software Update. Turn on Automatic Updates so critical security responses and system updates install automatically.
  • Windows: Navigate to Start > Settings > Windows Update. Select Check for updates and enable "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available".
2. Scan and Protect Your System with Microsoft Defender
Microsoft Defender provides malware protection and scanning across both Windows and Mac operating systems:
Windows (Built-in)
  1. Open Start > Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection.
  3. Under Current threats, click Scan options.
  4. Select Full scan or Microsoft Defender Offline scan, then click Scan now to detect and remove threats.
macOS
  1. Microsoft Defender should be install on your Kenyon owned Mac. From Applications: Open your Finder, go to the Applications folder, and double-click Microsoft Defender.
  2. Open System Settings > Privacy & Security and grant Microsoft Defender the required System Extension and Full Disk Access permissions.
  3. Open the Microsoft Defender app from your Applications folder or menu bar, navigate to Device protection, and run a full threat scan.
3. Local Repair Services & Support
If your computer continues to display pop-ups, browser redirects, or severe performance issues after running scans, the infection may require hardware service or an operating system reinstall:
  • Helpline Assistance: Contact Helpline for guidance and initial advice.
  • Local PC Repair (Mount Vernon, OH):
    • eNew Zone Computer & Phone Repair (14 S Main St, Mount Vernon, OH | 740-358-6347) provides local desktop and laptop diagnostic and repair services.
  • Apple Stores (Mac Support):
    • For official Mac hardware service and Genius Bar support, visit nearby Apple Retail Store locations such as Apple Polaris Fashion Place or Apple Easton Town Center in Columbus, OH.