Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet.
Since the Autorun virus might be designed to spread or update itself using the internet connection, it's important to disconnect your computer from the internet to prevent the virus from infecting other computers or contacting malicious servers.
Step 2: Boot the computer in Safe Mode.
Restart your computer and press a specific key during the boot process to enter Safe Mode. This will start the computer with a minimal set of drivers and services, making it easier to remove the virus. The key to press may vary depending on your computer model and operating system. For Windows, it's typically F8 or F10.
Step 3: Show hidden files and folders.
Some Autorun viruses may try to hide their files and folders to evade detection. To see these hidden items, open the File Explorer and click on the "View" tab. Then, enable the option labeled as "Hidden items" or "Show hidden files, folders, and drives."
Step 4: Delete Autorun.inf files.
Autorun viruses typically rely on an autorun.inf file to execute their malicious code when a drive or external device is inserted into the computer. Navigate to the following locations and delete any files named "Autorun.inf" or similar (e.g., "Autorun.exe" or "autorun"):
- Removable drives (e.g., USB drives)
- CD-ROM drives
- DVD drives
- External hard drives
- Other connected devices
Step 5: Use an antivirus program to scan the system.
Once the Autorun.inf files have been removed, run a full system scan with a reliable antivirus program. Make sure the antivirus software is updated to the latest definitions so that it can detect the Autorun virus and its associated files.
Step 6: Clean the registry.
Some Autorun viruses may modify the Windows registry to run their code automatically. Open the Registry Editor (regedit) and navigate to the following locations to check for suspicious entries related to the virus:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\RunOnce
Look for unusual entries that include file paths to the virus or other suspicious files. Delete any suspicious entries that are related to the virus.
Step 7: Re-enable hidden files and folders.
Once the virus is removed, you can disable the option to show hidden items in the File Explorer.
Step 8: Restart the computer normally.
Exit Safe Mode and restart the computer normally. Verify that the Autorun virus has been removed and that your computer is functioning correctly.
It is always a good practice to keep your antivirus software up to date, avoid downloading suspicious files, and exercise caution when connecting external devices to your computer to prevent future Autorun virus infections. If you encounter any difficulties in removing the virus, you may consider seeking assistance from a technical expert or contacting the manufacturer of your antivirus program for further support.
