If you think you have been affected by this malware, you do need to fix your computer. The malware tool kits used that change your computer’s DNS settings are very pervasive. Initially, the only way researchers could ensure that a machine was fixed was to reformat the hard drive and reinstall the operating system from scratch. The malware affected the boot blocks on the hard disk of the computer, so even if people just reverted their operating system to a prior backup, the malware could reclaim the PC. Later on, several anti-malware software companies came up with fixes that removed software correctly. Some of them are listed below.
In addition to modifying your computer’s DNS settings, the malware also looked for home routers to which the computer was attached and modified their DNS settings as well. Not only were the infected computers using rogue DNS services, but other devices in the household or office as well, including wifi-enabled mobile phones, tablets, smart HDTVs, digital video recorders, and game consoles. The criminals would change the web content that users downloaded to suit their needs and make money.
Below are some steps to follow:
The first thing you want to do is make a backup of all of your important files. You might go to a computer store or shop online for a portable hard drive and copy all of your files onto that drive.
Either you or a computer professional that you rely upon and trust should follow the “self help” malware clean up guides listed below. The goal is to remove the malware and recover your PC from the control of the criminals that distributed it. If you were already thinking of upgrading to a new computer, now may be a good time to make the switch.
Once you have a clean PC, follow instructions for ensuring that your DNS settings are correct. If you’re not using a new PC, you’ll want to check that your computer’s DNS settings are not still using the DNS Changer DNS servers.