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Can a virus act if we just download it?

Anonymous
2022-10-28T19:09:03+00:00

Greetings, i'll try to be short and clear.

Can a virus act (or just do something on our PC) if we just download it, don't open it, really just download it and let it sit where it is.

Thank you for your response.

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Security and privacy

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DYARI BARHAM 34,346 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2022-10-28T19:59:51+00:00

Hi william,

I'm Dyari. Thanks for reaching out. I will be happy to assist you in this regard.

Actually, it depends on the type of virus/malware that you have downloaded. The majority of viruses are tied to executable files, so even though they may be on your computer, they cannot affect it until you execute or launch the infected application.

But even if you don't open some of them, damage can still be done.

The best thing to do in this incident, deleting the file by holding the Shift key and then deleting it. After that scan your computer with your Windows security or third-party security tool.

If you have downloaded any suspicious file, you can scan for viruses & malware with the free Malwarebytes:

https://www.malwarebytes.com/mwb-download

Please do not hesitate to ask if you need further assistance.

Stay safe

____________________________________________________________

Standard Disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft websites. The pages appear to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the sites that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the sites before you decide to download and install it.

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DYARI BARHAM 34,346 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2022-10-28T21:41:42+00:00

I can not identify the virus but If you have scanned your computer with those software, rest assured that your computer is safe, clean and is not affected.

You are most welcome. Glad to help.

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  1. Anonymous
    2022-10-28T20:51:48+00:00

    thank you for your response. this question was related to a previous problem that i had. (btw the icon of the virus was a little computer, like a setup logo) anyway, i used malwerebyte, microsoft safety scanner (msert), windows defender and mcafee to delete the viruses and or the files it could have infected.

    I asked this question to feel safe, to know if the virus did act or not (because i am a really anxious person). normally every bad file has been deleted.

    thank you for your response, i don't know if it means something, but the virus was a little computer icon, and i wanted to know if it means something or not. it could maybe make me feel more safe.

    Thank you very much dyari for your response, i am grateful

    William.

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  2. DYARI BARHAM 34,346 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2022-10-28T19:59:55+00:00

    Hi william,

    I'm Dyari. Thanks for reaching out. I will be happy to assist you in this regard.

    Actually, it depends on the type of virus/malware that you have downloaded. The majority of viruses are tied to executable files, so even though they may be on your computer, they cannot affect it until you execute or launch the infected application.

    But even if you don't open some of them, damage can still be done.

    The best thing to do in this incident, deleting the file by holding the Shift key and then deleting it. After that scan your computer with your Windows security or third-party security tool.

    If you have downloaded any suspicious file, you can scan for viruses & malware with the free Malwarebytes:

    https://www.malwarebytes.com/mwb-download

    Please do not hesitate to ask if you need further assistance.

    Stay safe

    ____________________________________________________________

    Standard Disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft websites. The pages appear to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the sites that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the sites before you decide to download and install it.

    Was this answer helpful?

    1 person found this answer helpful.
    0 comments