McAfee detects 99–100% of malware in AV-TEST testing, but no antivirus catches 100% of threats 100% of the time. If McAfee is not detecting a suspected virus: update McAfee virus definitions immediately, run a Full Scan (not Quick Scan), and if needed run a secondary scan with Malwarebytes Free.
📞 Free UK McAfee help: +44-800-066-8910 — 24/7 support, no hold music.
Key Points
- Update McAfee first: gear icon → Automatic Updates → Update Now — outdated definitions miss new threats
- Run a Full Scan, not Quick Scan: McAfee → Run Full Scan (examines every file, not just common locations)
- Recent malware may not be in definitions yet — update and re-scan after 24 hours
- McAfee Quick Scan covers startup files and common infection locations — may miss unusual threats
- Malwarebytes Free (second opinion): download from malwarebytes.com, run alongside McAfee for a second check
- Some malware actively hides from scanners — McAfee Rootkit Scanner (in settings) targets these
- After removing a threat: restart PC, run Full Scan again to confirm complete removal
- If PC behaviour is suspicious but no threats found: consult McAfee support for manual analysis