I have a malware/virus problem and I can'…

I have a malware/virus problem and I can't connect to the internet

I have a malware/virus problem and I can't connect to the internet now. My email doesn't work and either does Firefox or Safari or the App Store. I received some message last night that I was infected by malware. Is there anyway to install a malware scanner without connecting to the internet? My PC, iPad and iPhone all connect OK, but my Mac can't any longer. So I don't think it is my router or wifi. I've tried to install from a thumbdrive where I downloaded Sophos and ClamXav onto my PC, but when I install them on my Mac it wants to update the definitions and it can't connect to the internet. I've read a lot of things and tried them but can't figure anything out.

MacBook Pro, Mac OS X (10.7.4)

Posted on May 10, 2012 11:17 AM

Posted on May 10, 2012 2:04 PM

Please read this whole message before doing anything.

This procedure is a diagnostic test. It’s unlikely to solve your problem. Don’t be disappointed when you find that nothing has changed after you complete it.

The purpose of this exercise is to determine whether the problem is caused by third-party system modifications that load automatically at startup or login. Disconnect all wired peripherals except those needed for the test, and remove all aftermarket expansion cards. Boot in safe mode and log in to the account with the problem. The instructions provided by Apple are as follows:

Be sure your Mac is shut down.
Press the power button.
Immediately after you hear the startup tone, hold the Shift key. The Shift key should be held as soon as possible after the startup tone, but not before the tone.
Release the Shift key when you see the gray Apple icon and the progress indicator (looks like a spinning gear).

Note: If FileVault is enabled under Mac OS X 10.7 or later, you can’t boot in safe mode.

Safe mode is much slower to boot and run than normal, and some things won’t work at all, including wireless networking on certain Macs.

The login screen appears even if you usually log in automatically. You must know your login password in order to log in. If you’ve forgotten the password, you will need to reset it before you begin.

Test while in safe mode. Same problem(s)?

After testing, reboot as usual (i.e., not in safe mode) and verify that you still have the problem. Post the results of the test.

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