How to Detect, Fix & Protect your Computer Against The DNSChanger Virus.

This July 9th many personal computers may lose their internet connection due to the DNSChanger virus. Why is this? How will this happen?

On July 9 the FBI will shut down the temporary servers it has set up to keep victims of the virus connected to the web. Image credit: Intego

The virus changes the addresses of the service (DNS) that associates information with websites. One effect of this change is, for example, the alteration of your web searches, making them point to malicious websites. Actually, an infected computer/router will lose their connection to the internet not because of the actions of the virus but because of the actions of authorities to stop the virus!

If your computer/router is affected, losing connection to the web on July 9 will happen because the FBI will shut down the temporary servers it has set up to keep victims of the virus connected to the web. Before that happens, you can easily …

• DETECT if your computer is infected by simply going to one of the websites that have been set up to this effect. If you are in Canada go to the DNSChanger Malware Checker or here for a list of other countries’ websites.

If you are affected by the virus you can find information about …

• how to FIX your computer on this link, where you can also find advice on
• how to stay PROTECTED.

More info about the DNSChanger virus on the Public Safety Canada website and on CBC News.