Can you remove ransomware?

We can remove the ransomware software itself. File recovery after ransomware encryption depends on whether backups exist. We'll assess what's recoverable during diagnosis.

I think I fell for a tech support scam — what should I do?

Do not call the number again. Do not pay anything. Call us — we'll help you assess the damage, remove any software they installed, and change credentials for any accounts that may have been accessed.

Can you remove a virus remotely?

Many infections can be addressed via remote session. If the infection is severe or your computer is too unstable to connect, an in-home visit may be needed.

Will virus removal delete my files?

We take care to preserve your files during removal. In cases where the infection has corrupted files, we'll let you know before taking any action.

How do I avoid getting infected again?

We'll walk you through the basics — keeping Windows and software updated, using a reputable antivirus, avoiding suspicious links, and recognizing phishing attempts. We can also set up ongoing protection for you.

Virus removal and tech support in Athol MA

Virus & Malware Removal in Athol, MA

Is your computer showing pop-ups, fake warnings, or slowing to a crawl? It may be infected — and we can help.

Mike Cote Tech LLC provides virus and malware removal for customers in Athol and surrounding Massachusetts towns. If your computer is displaying constant pop-ups, browser redirects, suspicious security warnings, or signs of a scam attack, we diagnose the problem, remove the infection, and help you understand how to stay protected going forward.

We work with trusted security tools including Malwarebytes and CrowdStrike and can set you up with ongoing antivirus protection to prevent future infections.

Serving Athol, Gardner, Orange, Templeton, Winchendon, Westminster, Leominster, Fitchburg, Lancaster, Ashburnham, Ashby, Hubbardston, Petersham, Barre, Worcester, Shrewsbury, and Holden.

Think your computer is infected?

Call (978) 763-6164.

Available Evenings & Weekends: Mon–Fri 7pm–11pm · Sat–Sun 11am–11pm

(Evening and weekend appointments — because your tech problems don't keep office hours.)

Virus and malware removal in Athol, MA and nearby towns. Remove pop-ups, suspicious software, and infections with reliable local tech support.

SIGNS YOUR COMPUTER MAY BE INFECTED

Common Signs of a Virus or Malware Infection

Not every virus announces itself. Here are the most common warning signs that your computer may be infected:

Constant pop-up ads, even when your browser is closed
Your browser homepage or search engine changed without your permission
Websites redirect you to unexpected pages
Fake security alerts or "your computer is infected" warnings (especially with a phone number to call)
Computer is suddenly much slower than normal
Programs open, close, or crash on their own
Your antivirus software has been disabled unexpectedly
Friends report receiving strange emails or messages from your account
You received a suspicious phone call and allowed remote access to your computer
Ransom messages demanding payment to access your files

If you recognize any of these symptoms, stop using your computer for sensitive tasks like banking or email and call us right away.

How We Remove Viruses and Malware

Step 1 — Diagnosis We assess what's on your computer, identify the infection type, and determine how far it has spread.

Step 2 — Removal Using professional security tools, we remove the virus, malware, spyware, adware, or ransomware from your system.

Step 3 — Security review We check for any damage left behind, restore affected settings, and verify your accounts haven't been compromised.

Step 4 — Prevention We recommend and can install ongoing antivirus protection (Malwarebytes, CrowdStrike) and walk you through the habits that keep you safe.

Victim of a Tech Support Scam?

If someone called you claiming to be Microsoft or another tech company, asked you to allow remote access, and may have installed software or accessed your accounts, you need to act quickly. Mike Cote Tech LLC helps customers recover from unauthorized remote access — reviewing what was done, removing anything suspicious, securing accounts, and advising on next steps including financial account monitoring.

Ongoing Protection

We offer Malwarebytes Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware licenses for ongoing protection on your computers and mobile devices. A license keeps your system actively defended against viruses, scams, phishing sites, and malicious downloads.