Skip to content
Digissential

Virus & malware removal in Stellenbosch: safe steps for students & SMEs

How to handle malware infections in Stellenbosch—scan safely, avoid scams, and know when to call Digissential for virus removal & backups.

Digissential Team 3 min read Updated 05 Sept 2025

virus removalmalwarestellenboschphishingdata recovery

TL;DR: Disconnect from Wi-Fi, run a trusted scan (Microsoft Safety Scanner), and don’t click suspicious links. If the infection persists, call Digissential for secure removal and data backup.

Identify the problem

Malware in Stellenbosch usually shows up as:

  • Pop-ups or fake “antivirus” warnings.
  • Laptop suddenly slow, overheating, or crashing.
  • Browser redirecting to gambling/loan sites.
  • Ransom notes demanding payment in crypto.
  • Students receiving phishing emails that look like Stellenbosch University exam notices or bursary offers.
  • SMEs targeted by WhatsApp “payment overdue” scams with fake PDF invoices.

Safe steps (do this in order)

  1. Disconnect from the internet — unplug Wi-Fi/Ethernet to cut off data theft.
  2. Run Microsoft Safety Scanner (download) for a one-time, trusted scan.
  3. Delete suspicious emails/attachments — don’t forward them.
  4. Report phishing via Google: https://safebrowsing.google.com/safebrowsing/report_phish/.
  5. Back up only clean files (documents/photos) to an external drive.
  6. If infections persist, book Virus & Malware Removal with Digissential.

Do-nots

  • Don’t download “free” antivirus from pop-ups — many are malware themselves.
  • Don’t keep using banking or email apps if you suspect infection.
  • Don’t attempt registry edits or deep system tweaks unless you’re trained.
  • Don’t ignore ransomware — powering on repeatedly can corrupt data further.

Time & cost in Stellenbosch (realistic bands)

  • Basic scan & cleanup: from R550 (≈1 hour).
  • Extended malware removal: from R700–R1,000 if multiple infections.
  • Data backup & recovery add-on: from R350 (50GB included).
  • Turnaround: same-day in workshop; next-day on-site (rates apply).

When to stop DIY

  • If malware keeps returning after “removal.”
  • If ransomware is present (screen locked, payment demanded).
  • If your antivirus is disabled or blocked.
  • If client/student data is at risk — POPIA requires professional safeguards.

Book help (fast)

FAQs

Q: What’s the safest first step if I think I have a virus?
A: Disconnect from the internet and avoid opening more files. This prevents data theft and further spread.

Q: Can I use free antivirus tools?
A: Yes, but only trusted ones like Microsoft Safety Scanner. Many ‘free’ tools are scams themselves.

Q: What if I clicked on a phishing email?
A: Change your passwords immediately, enable MFA, and run a scan. Report the phishing link to Google.

Q: Do students at Stellenbosch get targeted?
A: Yes. Phishing emails and WhatsApp scams are common near exam season, often faking SU admin or bursary notices.

Q: When should I call a pro?
A: If scans can’t remove the malware, if your device is unusable, or if you risk losing important data — book Digissential’s virus removal service.

Compliance & trust:

External references:

Updated on 2025-09-04.