Solutions
The first line of defense is to make sure the computer's operating system (OS) has the current updates. Check Microsoft Security and Critical Updates or Apple's Software Updates. Make sure your device is charging before you start the update. Both newer Macs (Sequoia '24, Sonoma '23, Ventura '22) and Win 11 PCs have excellent anti-malware and antivirus software built into them. Visit 'Security' on your device and familiarize yourself with it. Next is to determine if you need an additional antivirus or anti-malware program installed for added protection. Most systems don't. Both Mac's and Win 11 are highly secure out of the box. It's important to mention that Francis IT often finds outdated antivirus programs installed on Macs and PCs. The owners see that they have something installed but don't realize it is not working because they have not been paying the annual fee to keep their account current. By uninstalling an old, unsupported security app, and rebooting, the system (Mac or Win) immediately takes back "command and control" of security and starts protecting the computer in real time.
It's crucial to always keep Adobe Acrobat Reader updated to the latest version to benefit most from recent security patches and features. Unfortunately, despite enhanced security measures built into Acrobat Reader, users should remain cautious when opening PDF files from unknown or untrusted sources, as they can still pose a security risk. By default, Reader installs with the auto update function turned on. Don't let a scareware pop-up on your screen trick you into 'updating' ANY application. Update apps from within the app itself, making sure Auto Update is ON. Getting tricked (through social engineering) into upgrading or installing a fake application or program on to the computer. And this is the most common way of getting malware installed on any computer. (Read this article on Malware.)
Now that the OS and all software is up to date, the next consideration is how you connect to the internet.
If you are using one of the many gateway router provided by your ISP, it may not have both NAT and SPI, and if it does, there is the possibility that one or the other (or both) are turned off. This occurs because these units are passed from customer to customer and are rarely inspected by cable companies or their customers. Asking a cable tech to show you that they are working and at what level is always a good idea. And if you are so inclined, you can do it yourself with a Google search or a call to your ISP.
If you suspect a virus or other invasive program, you can scan your system online or with retail antivirus software. The web links listed in Online Help could be helpful in determining the problem and eliminating it, or in confirming your system is clean, if you are in doubt. Please follow the manufacturers directions. Please note that not all malware can be reliably removed from an infected computer with just one application, particularly with multiple infections involving infections. Don't get tricked into thinking your system is infected and then download and install an app that you have been convinced will help only to find that the app itself is malware.