IT-Questions.com

Security · 4 guides

Phishing and malware

Suspicious links, possible viruses, locking the PC, and reporting a lost device.

I think my computer has a virus

The PC is suddenly slow, pop-ups appear, or files look encrypted.

Call IT if neededAbout 8 minutes4 steps

You might notice

  • Unexpected toolbars or pop-ups
  • Files renamed or encrypted
  • Security software is turned off
  1. 01

    Disconnect from the network if files are being encrypted

    Unplug Ethernet, turn off Wi-Fi, and disconnect VPN. This slows spread to shares. Do not pay a ransom prompt.

  2. 02

    Do not install random “cleaner” tools

    Those sites often are the malware. Use only the company-approved antivirus already on the device.

  3. 03

    Run the official full scan

    Open the company security agent or Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Full scan. Keep the PC on power.

  4. 04

    Write down what you clicked

    Note the email, USB stick, or website that started this. That is the most useful information you can give IT.

I clicked a suspicious link

You opened a questionable URL and need to limit the damage quickly.

Call IT if neededAbout 6 minutes4 steps

You might notice

  • A site asked for your password
  • A file downloaded on its own
  • The page looked like a sign-in screen
  1. 01

    Stop entering information

    Close the tab. Do not try the password “one more time” to see if it was real.

  2. 02

    If you typed your password, change it from a safe page

    Use a bookmark or type the company portal address yourself. Then update VPN, mail, and your phone so old passwords stop retrying.

  3. 03

    If a file downloaded, do not open it

    Delete it from Downloads. Do not enable macros. Run a quick scan with the company antivirus.

  4. 04

    Report the original message

    Use Report phishing on the email if that is how you got there. Tell IT the time and whether you entered a password or MFA code.

How to lock my computer

Protect your session when you stand up, even for a minute.

EasyAbout 1 minutes3 steps

You might notice

  • You are leaving your desk
  • A visitor is nearby
  • You use a shared or open office
  1. 01

    Lock immediately

    On Windows press Win+L. On a Mac press Control+Command+Q. The machine stays on; only the lock screen appears.

  2. 02

    Do not rely on the screensaver alone

    Idle lock helps, but it is not instant. Lock every time you leave the keyboard.

  3. 03

    Sign out on shared PCs

    On a conference-room or hot-desk machine, sign out so the next person does not land in your mailbox.

How to report a lost or stolen device

A company laptop, phone, or badge is missing and must be locked or wiped.

Call IT if neededAbout 5 minutes4 steps

You might notice

  • Laptop left in a car or taxi
  • Phone missing after travel
  • Badge is gone
  1. 01

    Call IT as soon as you notice

    Do not wait until Monday. Security can disable the account, revoke VPN, and wipe a managed device.

  2. 02

    Share the last known facts

    Asset tag if you know it, model, time last seen, whether it was signed in, and whether it had a PIN or biometrics.

  3. 03

    Change your password from another device

    Use a colleague’s machine or a phone browser on the official portal. This limits what a finder can do if the session was unlocked.

  4. 04

    Report a stolen badge separately

    Building security needs to deactivate badge access. IT cannot always do that for you.