Adware/spyware /trojan blues

Steve Frost · Post by **Steve Frost** » 7 Apr 2004 3:00 pm

Probably in C..... But, seriously folks,I need help with the problem i mentioned in my last( poorly titled) post, "missing shortcut". Adaware and Spybot aren't getting this one, so I may have to buy something. I've tried a bunch of trials that FIND malware- but the trial doesn't extend to determining whether they can actually ELIMINATE the problem. So , what do you recommend? I don't mind paying to get rid of this problem, but I don't want to take a shot in the dark. What do you recommend? BTW- this is what's happening to me: http://forums.thatcomputerguy.us/index.php?s=66dc198dd15f05a742fcfa10a2cd5c0b&showtopic=1466

Steve Frost · Post by **Steve Frost** » 8 Apr 2004 2:06 am

This link describes the problem better. http://www.computing.net/windowsme/wwwboard/forum/42076.html

Jeff Agnew · Post by **Jeff Agnew** » 8 Apr 2004 4:14 am

First, which OS are you using? If it's XP, turn off the system restore feature before doing anything.

Second, you were probably hit with winpup. There's a fair amount of discussion on how to remove it in the thread you posted. Specifically, go here to find a complete description of the problem and a link to a tool which will remove it.

Third, install Spyware Blaster on your PC. Choose the "Enable All Protection" setting, which will help prevent browser hijackings and other common methods of infecting your system.

Finally, consider dumping Internet Explorer and using Mozilla, Firefox, or Opera. None of which are vulnerable to ActiveX exploits like the one that got you.[This message was edited by Jeff Agnew on 08 April 2004 at 05:15 AM.]

Steve Frost · Post by **Steve Frost** » 8 Apr 2004 1:39 pm

Thanks, Jeff! I'm using Windows ME, by the way. I take it I should disable Restore with this OS as well? Messing with the registry tends to make me nervous, but I guess I've got no choice.. I was kind of hoping for a one click fix, even if it cost some bucks. I've already put a lot of time into this mess. What kind of sad sorry loser invents these pests?!

Steve Frost · Post by **Steve Frost** » 8 Apr 2004 1:55 pm

Sorry-double post

[This message was edited by Steve Frost on 08 April 2004 at 04:39 PM.]

Jeff Agnew · Post by **Jeff Agnew** » 9 Apr 2004 4:19 am

Steve,

I don't believe ME has a system restore feature. (I refuse to use that particular OS and have it on none of our machines.) But if it does have the feature, turn it off.

I'm afraid there's no one-click solution. Actually, there is. Almost. You might consider backing up your data (not the applications) and doing a clean install of Win 2000 or even XP if your hardware supports it.

Steve Frost · Post by **Steve Frost** » 10 Apr 2004 3:53 pm

Jeff- I managed to eliminate the problem eventually- turned out there were some 180 files in "All Users", trying unsucessfullty to phone home. Thanks for the help, and moral support!

Steve Frost · Post by **Steve Frost** » 10 Apr 2004 3:56 pm

Crikey- another double post![This message was edited by Steve Frost on 10 April 2004 at 04:57 PM.]