If malware is found on a computer, what should be done with it?

Quarantining malware is the most prudent action to take when it is found on a computer. This process involves isolating the infected files or programs to prevent them from causing further harm to the system or spreading to other devices. By moving potentially dangerous files into a secure area, you can also analyze them safely without risking the integrity of the rest of the system.

Quarantining allows for the opportunity to investigate the nature of the malware, understand how it infiltrated the system, and decide on the proper removal methods. This step can also be crucial for forensic analysis, so any potential threats can be identified and addressed comprehensively to strengthen the system against future attacks.

Taking no action, copying the malware elsewhere, or simply deleting the source file fails to adequately secure the system or address the underlying issue. Ignoring it risks further damage or data loss, while copying to an external drive could potentially spread the malware to other systems. Deleting the source file does not eliminate the infection from the system and may leave residual components that can still cause problems. Thus, quarantining is the safest and most responsible approach when dealing with detected malware.