Need assistance with a virus? Let me know how I can help!
Need assistance with a virus? Let me know how I can help!
I've encountered a virus on my computer before. I was just using Spotify and suddenly it started acting up. I attempted to wipe everything, but I ended up turning off the PC to protect the GPU and CPU. After rebooting, I tried accessing BIOS for a fresh Windows install, but it still controls the BIOS settings. Someone might know how to resolve this issue—any advice would be greatly appreciated.
PC specs: Intel i5-5600X, RTX 2060 Super, 16GB RAM, 3600MHz Corsair Vengeance, Aorus Elite B550M, ADATA SU630 240GB SSD, Seagate Barracuda 2TB HDD.
I attempted to restart the PC, which immediately launched into BIOS. It seemed to be switching through pages before pausing. I tried saving the setup, but when I turned off the PC via the PSU, I wasn’t sure if I did it in time. Now I’ve completely removed it from Ethernet and power, along with the CMOS battery and RAM. I’m not clear on what to do next.
Up to now there’s no proof of a virus present. Your explanation about why you suspect malware isn’t very clear. Unless a country-spanning threat is aiming at you, your BIOS shouldn’t be under attack by a virus. It’s possible you do have one, but so far it seems like just random noise and confusion. If your BIOS is acting on its own, try unplugging the keyboard—does it continue to move? Be ready to receive guidance that your system needs to be reset.
I really question the existence of viruses capable of manipulating BIOS in such a way. Are there any unexpected activities with the input devices? Could a macro be executing on your keyboard or a wireless mouse be responsible? Disconnect the keyboard once you reach the BIOS settings and check for any wireless USB adapters. I suspect the keyboard plays a role—both deleting files and entering BIOS likely involve the 'del' key. If the keyboard simply runs a script that records this key or if it gets damaged, the key presses could be recorded, explaining all the issues you've noticed.
I’ve taken everything off except the display and power. I’ve reinstalled my RAM and CMOS battery, then turned the PC back on to observe what happens. I expect it to behave like malware. When I closed an application, most of my desktop shortcuts disappeared and the uninstall progress bar stopped working. It can’t be a simple prank or something unrelated, since my motherboard lacks Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. I’m connected to a public university network, but no one in my building or flat has reported similar issues, which makes me suspect malware. I should have been clear about my willingness to wipe the PC, but if I can’t manage the BIOS, I don’t know how to proceed. Before flashing the BIOS, I’d like to confirm whether others think this approach could be effective.
I started without a connected keyboard and got into Windows. After rebooting with the keyboard on, it told me the BIOS was reset because the CMOS battery was removed—this seems correct. Now I’m unsure what to do next. Should I try running Windows again to check further, or should I safely install a fresh Windows version?
Open Windows and execute virus/malware checks. Check for any detected threats. MalwareBytes is available alongside Windows Defender as a free option.
Use Malwarebytes offline to perform a scan. If the IRS reinstalls is necessary, it might be a good approach.