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How to Fix a PS3 Virus

Kiyoshi Ota/Getty Images News/Getty Images

The Sony PlayStation 3 is a wonderful gaming device and a very capable media server. You can play high-definition games, watch high-definition movies, listen to music and even browse the Internet. Unfortunately, just like any other computer device that is plugged into the Internet, the PS3 is susceptible to virus attacks. If your PS3 has fallen ill to a malicious virus, follow these steps to save your data and restore your PS3.

Things You'll Need:

  • External Hard Drive Or Thumb Drive
  • Usb Cable

Back Up Data

Attach an external hard drive or thumb drive to your PS3 with the USB cable, if necessary.

Go to “Settings” in the Cross Media Bar.

Scroll down and press "X" on “Backup Utility.”

Select “Back Up” and select the hard drive you wish to save on. All of your PS3 settings and game data will be saved onto the external hard drive.

Restore PS3

Go to “Settings” in the Cross Media Bar.

Scroll down and press "X" on “Restore PS3 System.”

Follow the onscreen instructions and your PS3 will be restored to factory default and the hard drive will be cleared.

Restore Data

Attach the external drive with your PS3 backup data.

Go to “Settings” in the Cross Media Bar.

Scroll down and press "X" on “Backup Utility.”

Select “Restore” and the Backup Utility will restore your saved data from the external hard drive.

Tip

Be sure to use the “PS3 System Restore” option and not the “Restore Factory Defaults,” as the latter will not clear your hard drive and erase the virus.

Trophies are not saved through the Backup Utility. To save trophies, you must sync them with your online account by accessing the “Trophies” folder in the “Games” menu on the Cross Media Bar.

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