How to Get Rid of a Dr. Watson Computer Virus

There is a detailed record of a virus commonly referred to as the Dr. Watson Virus. But this virus is rarely encountered. Part of the reason why infections are so rare is because the Dr. Watson Virus cannot automatically replicate itself to spread to other users. The virus also "hides in the open," so to speak, meaning that you can easily locate the infected file on your computer. Furthermore, all major anti-virus programs can detect and remove this virus.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Windows and Internet access
• Anti-virus software (optional)

1. Look for signs suggesting that you may have the Dr. Watson virus. The most common signs are error messages that read "Tracing mode has been destroyed" or "Dr. Watson has terminated unexpectedly and needs to close."

2. Conduct a full scan with your anti-virus software if you have it installed. Make sure that the scan is set to examine your entire hard drive, and make sure your virus definitions are up to date. Unless you're using a defunct, ineffective or infected set of anti-virus software, it will detect any instance of the Dr. Watson virus. If and when it does, quarantine the file immediately.

3. Take advantage of Microsoft's free system scan if you do not have an anti-virus program or if you still suspect a Dr. Watson Virus even after running your anti-virus scan. A link to the free scan in Windows Live OneCare center can be found in the resources section. When you get to the website, click the "Full Service Scan" button.

4. Follow the on-screen prompts to initiate the scan. Then wait for it to complete.

5. Read the online report with the results of your scan and take the action that Microsoft recommends. If only the Dr. Watson Virus is detected, Microsoft will direct you to a utility that can be used to purge it from your system. If other viruses or malware are found instead or in addition to the Dr. Watson Virus, you may receive different instructions.

Tips & Warnings

• Download, install and maintain a well-reviewed anti-virus program that features active protection, meaning it will catch and quarantine harmful files as they appear. This will help you catch viruses before they can harm your computer and allows you to minimize damage and data loss.

Resources

• Windows Live OneCare center