Malware popups appearing

[patpro]

I keep getting malware popups (I think--all threats like Trojan detected! update windows!) and the free malware bytes won't kill them. Is it helpful to know this? c\swsetup\PUP.sp149011   I read about PUPs. Malwarebytes quarantined something here and I deleted it but that didn't help. Idon't know that I have a Pavilion. It's refurbished and doesn't have a label like my other HPs. It's out of warranty and I can't spend $99 for HP to fix this.

[Max3Aj]

@patpro, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 

I’m sorry to hear you’re dealing with persistent malware popups. You’re absolutely right to be cautious messages like “Trojan detected!” and “Update Windows!” are often scareware tactics used by potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) or actual malware.

Since Malwarebytes Free didn’t fully resolve the issue, let’s walk through a few steps to clean your system and prevent future infections. You don’t need to spend $99—these steps are free and effective.

Step-by-Step Cleanup Guide

Boot into Safe Mode with Networking

This helps prevent malware from interfering with cleanup.

• Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
• Go to the Boot tab, check Safe boot, and select Network.
• Click OK and restart your PC.

Use AdwCleaner (by Malwarebytes)

AdwCleaner is specialized for removing PUPs and browser hijackers.

• Download from: AdwCleaner Official Page
• Run the scan and let it clean anything it finds.
• Restart your PC when prompted.

Run Microsoft Defender Offline Scan

This deep scan can catch hidden threats.

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
• Click Scan options and choose Microsoft Defender Offline scan.
• Your PC will reboot and scan outside of Windows.

Check Startup Programs

Some malware re-launches via startup entries.

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
• Go to the Startup tab and disable anything suspicious or unknown.

Delete Temporary Files

This clears leftover malware traces.

• Press Windows + R, type cleanmgr, and run Disk Cleanup.
• Select your system drive (usually C:) and clean temporary files.

Extra Tips

• Avoid clicking popups or downloading unknown “security tools.”
• Keep Windows updated: Go to Settings > Windows Update and install all updates.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support 

[patpro]

I finally find two simple fixes, one in windows--a notifications setting, I think--and one in the Edge browser. But thanks!