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Spyware / Malware / Virus Removal

Help Please - slow computer

9 min read

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Post #1
Hi

Recently my pc has been running slowly and I've also begun to have internet connection problems where previously there has been none. When I try to start up firefox from the desktop icon it comes up with Error 623 cannot find directory entry - I have to connect to the internet by going to control panel then network connections and then the appropriate icon.

Apologies but I am very ignorant when it comes to pc problems

Thanks

Log below

Logfile of Trend Micro HijackThis v2.0.4
Scan saved at 20:15:29, on 25/07/2010
Platform: Windows XP SP3 (WinNT 5.01.2600)
MSIE: Internet Explorer v7.00 (7.00.6000.17055)
Boot mode: Normal

Running processes:
C:\WINDOWS\System32\smss.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\winlogon.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\services.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\lsass.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MsMpEng.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\AAWService.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\LEXBCES.EXE
C:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\LEXPPS.EXE
C:\Program Files\Common Files\ArcSoft\Connection Service\Bin\ACService.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\AOL\ACS\AOLacsd.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Apple\Mobile Device Support\AppleMobileDeviceService.exe
C:\Program Files\Grisoft\AVG Anti-Spyware 7.5\guard.exe
C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\bgsvcgen.exe
C:\Program Files\Bonjour\mDNSResponder.exe
C:\Program Files\Java\jre6\bin\jqs.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LVCOMSER\LVComSer.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LVMVFM\LVPrcSrv.exe
C:\Program Files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\ccSvcHst.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\hkcmd.exe
C:\Program Files\Dell\Media Experience\PCMService.exe
C:\Program Files\CyberLink\PowerDVD\DVDLauncher.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Intel\Modem Event Monitor\IntelMEM.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\dla\tfswctrl.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\UStorSrv.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\AOL\ACS\AOLDial.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\AOL\AOLSPY~1\AOLSP Scheduler.exe
C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MSASCui.exe
C:\Program Files\Thomson\SpeedTouch USB\Dragdiag.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Real\Update_OB\realsched.exe
C:\Program Files\Canon\MyPrinter\BJMyPrt.exe
C:\Program Files\ScanSoft\OmniPageSE4\OpwareSE4.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\ArcSoft\Connection Service\Bin\ACDaemon.exe
C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\AAWTray.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LComMgr\Communications_Helper.exe
C:\Program Files\Logitech\QuickCam\Quickcam.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Java\Java Update\jusched.exe
C:\Program Files\iTunes\iTunesHelper.exe
C:\Program Files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\ccSvcHst.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LVCOMSER\LVComSer.exe
C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\ctfmon.exe
C:\Program Files\Google\GoogleToolbarNotifier\GoogleToolbarNotifier.exe
C:\Program Files\Skype\Phone\Skype.exe
C:\Program Files\FinePixViewer\QuickDCF2.exe
C:\Program Files\LG PC Suite\LG PC Sync\LGSyncManager.exe
C:\Program Files\SpywareGuard\sgmain.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Logishrd\LQCVFX\COCIManager.exe
C:\Program Files\SpywareGuard\sgbhp.exe
C:\Program Files\iPod\bin\iPodService.exe
C:\Program Files\Skype\Plugin Manager\skypePM.exe
C:\Program Files\Mozilla Firefox\firefox.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\Norman\My Documents\Downloads\HiJackThis(2).exe

R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Search Page = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=54896
R0 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page =
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Page_URL = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=69157
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Search_URL = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=54896
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Search Page = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=54896
R0 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=69157
R0 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Search,SearchAssistant =
R0 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Search,CustomizeSearch =
O2 - BHO: Adobe PDF Reader Link Helper - {06849E9F-C8D7-4D59-B87D-784B7D6BE0B3} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\ActiveX\AcroIEHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: RealPlayer Download and Record Plugin for Internet Explorer - {3049C3E9-B461-4BC5-8870-4C09146192CA} - C:\Program Files\Real\RealPlayer\rpbrowserrecordplugin.dll
O2 - BHO: SpywareGuardDLBLOCK.CBrowserHelper - {4A368E80-174F-4872-96B5-0B27DDD11DB2} - C:\Program Files\SpywareGuard\dlprotect.dll
O2 - BHO: DriveLetterAccess - {5CA3D70E-1895-11CF-8E15-001234567890} - C:\WINDOWS\system32\dla\tfswshx.dll
O2 - BHO: Symantec NCO BHO - {602ADB0E-4AFF-4217-8AA1-95DAC4DFA408} - C:\Program Files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\coIEPlg.dll
O2 - BHO: Symantec Intrusion Prevention - {6D53EC84-6AAE-4787-AEEE-F4628F01010C} - C:\Program Files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\IPSBHO.DLL
O2 - BHO: Google Toolbar Helper - {AA58ED58-01DD-4d91-8333-CF10577473F7} - c:\program files\google\googletoolbar3.dll
O2 - BHO: Google Toolbar Notifier BHO - {AF69DE43-7D58-4638-B6FA-CE66B5AD205D} - C:\Program Files\Google\GoogleToolbarNotifier\5.4.4525.1752\swg.dll
O2 - BHO: Java™ Plug-In 2 SSV Helper - {DBC80044-A445-435b-BC74-9C25C1C588A9} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre6\bin\jp2ssv.dll
O2 - BHO: JQSIEStartDetectorImpl - {E7E6F031-17CE-4C07-BC86-EABFE594F69C} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre6\lib\deploy\jqs\ie\jqs_plugin.dll
O3 - Toolbar: &Google - {2318C2B1-4965-11d4-9B18-009027A5CD4F} - c:\program files\google\googletoolbar3.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Norton Toolbar - {7FEBEFE3-6B19-4349-98D2-FFB09D4B49CA} - C:\Program Files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\coIEPlg.dll
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IgfxTray] C:\WINDOWS\system32\igfxtray.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [HotKeysCmds] C:\WINDOWS\system32\hkcmd.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PCMService] "C:\Program Files\Dell\Media Experience\PCMService.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [DVDLauncher] "C:\Program Files\CyberLink\PowerDVD\DVDLauncher.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IntelMeM] C:\Program Files\Intel\Modem Event Monitor\IntelMEM.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [dla] C:\WINDOWS\system32\dla\tfswctrl.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [UpdateManager] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Sonic\Update Manager\sgtray.exe" /r
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [AOLDialer] C:\Program Files\Common Files\AOL\ACS\AOLDial.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [AOL Spyware Protection] "C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\AOL\AOLSPY~1\AOLSP Scheduler.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Windows Defender] "C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MSASCui.exe" -hide
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SpeedTouch USB Diagnostics] "C:\Program Files\Thomson\SpeedTouch USB\Dragdiag.exe" /icon
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [TkBellExe] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Real\Update_OB\realsched.exe" -osboot
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [CanonSolutionMenu] C:\Program Files\Canon\SolutionMenu\CNSLMAIN.exe /logon
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [CanonMyPrinter] C:\Program Files\Canon\MyPrinter\BJMyPrt.exe /logon
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SSBkgdUpdate] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Scansoft Shared\SSBkgdUpdate\SSBkgdupdate.exe" -Embedding -boot
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [OpwareSE4] "C:\Program Files\ScanSoft\OmniPageSE4\OpwareSE4.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [REGSHAVE] C:\Program Files\REGSHAVE\REGSHAVE.EXE /AUTORUN
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [ArcSoft Connection Service] C:\Program Files\Common Files\ArcSoft\Connection Service\Bin\ACDaemon.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Ad-Watch] C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\AAWTray.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [LogitechCommunicationsManager] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LComMgr\Communications_Helper.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [LogitechQuickCamRibbon] "C:\Program Files\Logitech\QuickCam\Quickcam.exe" /hide
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SunJavaUpdateSched] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Java\Java Update\jusched.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [QuickTime Task] "C:\Program Files\QuickTime\QTTask.exe" -atboottime
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [iTunesHelper] "C:\Program Files\iTunes\iTunesHelper.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [AppleSyncNotifier] C:\Program Files\Common Files\Apple\Mobile Device Support\AppleSyncNotifier.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [MSMSGS] "C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe" /background
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [ctfmon.exe] C:\WINDOWS\system32\ctfmon.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [swg] "C:\Program Files\Google\GoogleToolbarNotifier\GoogleToolbarNotifier.exe"
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Skype] "C:\Program Files\Skype\\Phone\Skype.exe" /nosplash /minimized
O4 - HKCU\..\RunOnce: [] C:\Program Files\Mozilla Firefox\firefox.exe http://www.symantec.com/techsupp/servlet/P…000000D8.DMTemp
O4 - HKUS\S-1-5-18\..\Run: [CTFMON.EXE] C:\WINDOWS\System32\CTFMON.EXE (User 'SYSTEM')
O4 - HKUS\S-1-5-18\..\Run: [ALUAlert] C:\Program Files\Symantec\LiveUpdate\ALUNotify.exe (User 'SYSTEM')
O4 - HKUS\S-1-5-18\..\Run: [DWQueuedReporting] "C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\MICROS~1\DW\dwtrig20.exe" -t (User 'SYSTEM')
O4 - HKUS\.DEFAULT\..\Run: [CTFMON.EXE] C:\WINDOWS\System32\CTFMON.EXE (User 'Default user')
O4 - Startup: SpywareGuard.lnk = C:\Program Files\SpywareGuard\sgmain.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Adobe Reader Speed Launch.lnk = C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\Reader\reader_sl.exe
O4 - Global Startup: AOL 9.0 Tray Icon.lnk = C:\Program Files\AOL 9.0\aoltray.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Exif Launcher 2.lnk = ?
O4 - Global Startup: LG Sync Manager.lnk = ?
O4 - Global Startup: LG SyncManager.lnk = ?
O4 - Global Startup: Microsoft Office.lnk = C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office10\OSA.EXE
O9 - Extra button: Real.com - {CD67F990-D8E9-11d2-98FE-00C0F0318AFE} - C:\WINDOWS\System32\Shdocvw.dll
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {e2e2dd38-d088-4134-82b7-f2ba38496583} - C:\WINDOWS\Network Diagnostic\xpnetdiag.exe
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: @xpsp3res.dll,-20001 - {e2e2dd38-d088-4134-82b7-f2ba38496583} - C:\WINDOWS\Network Diagnostic\xpnetdiag.exe
O9 - Extra button: Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Windows Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
O16 - DPF: {01010E00-5E80-11D8-9E86-0007E96C65AE} - http://www.symantec.com/techsupp/asa/ctrl/tgctlsi.cab
O16 - DPF: {01012101-5E80-11D8-9E86-0007E96C65AE} - http://www.symantec.com/techsupp/asa/ctrl/tgctlsr.cab
O16 - DPF: {17492023-C23A-453E-A040-C7C580BBF700} (Windows Genuine Advantage Validation Tool) - http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkid=39204
O16 - DPF: {1F2F4C9E-6F09-47BC-970D-3C54734667FE} - https://www-secure.symantec.com/techsupp/asa/LSSupCtl.cab
O16 - DPF: {2BC66F54-93A8-11D3-BEB6-00105AA9B6AE} (Symantec AntiVirus scanner) - http://security.symantec.com/sscv6/SharedC…bin/AvSniff.cab
O16 - DPF: {6414512B-B978-451D-A0D8-FCFDF33E833C} (WUWebControl Class) - http://v5.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/v5co…b?1093172866859
O16 - DPF: {644E432F-49D3-41A1-8DD5-E099162EEEC5} (Symantec RuFSI Utility Class) - http://security.symantec.com/sscv6/SharedC…n/bin/cabsa.cab
O16 - DPF: {6E32070A-766D-4EE6-879C-DC1FA91D2FC3} (MUWebControl Class) - http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdat…b?1134316141968
O16 - DPF: {CE28D5D2-60CF-4C7D-9FE8-0F47A3308078} - http://www.symantec.com/techsupp/asa/ctrl/SymAData.cab
O17 - HKLM\System\CCS\Services\Tcpip\..\{85A6CCF1-DBC5-44FE-8C9A-6D4B48B1B7F1}: NameServer = 212.139.132.38 212.74.114.213
O18 - Protocol: skype4com - {FFC8B962-9B40-4DFF-9458-1830C7DD7F5D} - C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\Skype\SKYPE4~1.DLL
O18 - Protocol: symres - {AA1061FE-6C41-421F-9344-69640C9732AB} - C:\Program Files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\coIEPlg.dll
O22 - SharedTaskScheduler: Browseui preloader - {438755C2-A8BA-11D1-B96B-00A0C90312E1} - C:\WINDOWS\System32\browseui.dll
O22 - SharedTaskScheduler: Component Categories cache daemon - {8C7461EF-2B13-11d2-BE35-3078302C2030} - C:\WINDOWS\System32\browseui.dll
O23 - Service: ArcSoft Connect Daemon (ACDaemon) - ArcSoft Inc. - C:\Program Files\Common Files\ArcSoft\Connection Service\Bin\ACService.exe
O23 - Service: AOL Connectivity Service (AOL ACS) - America Online, Inc. - C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\AOL\ACS\AOLacsd.exe
O23 - Service: Apple Mobile Device - Apple Inc. - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Apple\Mobile Device Support\AppleMobileDeviceService.exe
O23 - Service: AVG Anti-Spyware Guard - GRISOFT s.r.o. - C:\Program Files\Grisoft\AVG Anti-Spyware 7.5\guard.exe
O23 - Service: B's Recorder GOLD Library General Service (bgsvcgen) - B.H.A Corporation - C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\bgsvcgen.exe
O23 - Service: Bonjour Service - Apple Inc. - C:\Program Files\Bonjour\mDNSResponder.exe
O23 - Service: Google Updater Service (gusvc) - Google - C:\Program Files\Google\Common\Google Updater\GoogleUpdaterService.exe
O23 - Service: InstallDriver Table Manager (IDriverT) - Macrovision Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\InstallShield\Driver\11\Intel 32\IDriverT.exe
O23 - Service: iPod Service - Apple Inc. - C:\Program Files\iPod\bin\iPodService.exe
O23 - Service: Java Quick Starter (JavaQuickStarterService) - Sun Microsystems, Inc. - C:\Program Files\Java\jre6\bin\jqs.exe
O23 - Service: Lavasoft Ad-Aware Service - Lavasoft - C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\AAWService.exe
O23 - Service: LexBce Server (LexBceS) - Lexmark International, Inc. - C:\WINDOWS\system32\LEXBCES.EXE
O23 - Service: LVCOMSer - Logitech Inc. - C:\Program Files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LVCOMSER\LVComSer.exe
O23 - Service: Process Monitor (LVPrcSrv) - Logitech Inc. - C:\Program Files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LVMVFM\LVPrcSrv.exe
O23 - Service: Norton Internet Security - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\ccSvcHst.exe
O23 - Service: UStorage Server Service - OTi - C:\WINDOWS\system32\UStorSrv.exe

–
End of file - 13664 bytes
Post #2
Posted Image

DO NOT use any TOOLS such as Combofix, Vundofix, or HijackThis fixes without supervision.

Doing so could make your pc inoperatible and could require a full reinstall of your OS, losing all your programs and data.

Vista and Windows 7 users:
1. These tools MUST be run from the executable. (.exe) every time you run them
2. With Admin Rights (Right click, choose "Run as Administrator")


The issues with your computer that you list, doesn't appear to be related to Malware/Spyware/Virus but we can have a look.


Stay with this topic until I give you the all clean post.

You might want to print these instructions out.

I suggest you do this:

Double-click My Computer.
Click the Tools menu, and then click Folder Options.
Click the View tab.
Uncheck "Hide file extensions for known file types."
Under the "Hidden files" folder, select "Show hidden files and folders."
Uncheck "Hide protected operating system files."
Click Apply, and then click OK.


Please do not delete anything unless instructed to.


Please download ATF Cleaner by Atribune.
Download - ATF Cleaner»
Double-click ATF-Cleaner.exe to run the program.
Under Main choose: Select All
[external image: Posted Image]
Click the Empty Selected button.

(If you use FireFox or the Opera browser
To keep saved passwords, click No at the prompt.)

It's normal after running ATF cleaner that the PC will be slower to boot the first time or two.

Next:

Please download Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware to your desktop.

  • Double-click mbam-setup.exe and follow the prompts to install the program.
  • At the end, be sure a checkmark is placed next to Update Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware and Launch Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware, then click Finish.
  • If an update is found, it will download and install the latest version.
  • Once the program has loaded, select Perform quick scan, then click Scan.
    [external image: Posted Image]
  • When the scan is complete, click OK, then Show Results to view the results.
  • Be sure that everything is checked, and click Remove Selected .
  • When completed, a log will open in Notepad. Please save it to a convenient location and post the results.
  • Note: If you receive a notice that some of the items couldn't be removed, that they have been added to the delete on reboot list, please reboot.

Also please describe how your computer behaves at the moment.


Please don't attach the scans / logs, use "copy/paste". .
Post #3
Thank you for your help I've completed the tasks and the log from malwarebytes is copied below Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware 1.46 www.malwarebytes.org Database version: 4363 Windows 5.1.2600 Service Pack 3 Internet Explorer 7.0.5730.11 28/07/2010 18:14:39 mbam-log-2010-07-28 (18-14-39).txt Scan type: Quick scan Objects scanned: 129914 Time elapsed: 12 minute(s), 52 second(s) Memory Processes Infected: 0 Memory Modules Infected: 0 Registry Keys Infected: 1 Registry Values Infected: 0 Registry Data Items Infected: 2 Folders Infected: 0 Files Infected: 0 Memory Processes Infected: (No malicious items detected) Memory Modules Infected: (No malicious items detected) Registry Keys Infected: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\Stats\{07b18ea9-a523-4961-b6bb-170de4475cca} (Adware.MyWebSearch) -> Quarantined and deleted successfully. Registry Values Infected: (No malicious items detected) Registry Data Items Infected: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Security Center\AntiVirusDisableNotify (Disabled.SecurityCenter) -> Bad: (1) Good: (0) -> Quarantined and deleted successfully. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Security Center\FirewallDisableNotify (Disabled.SecurityCenter) -> Bad: (1) Good: (0) -> Quarantined and deleted successfully. Folders Infected: (No malicious items detected) Files Infected: (No malicious items detected)
Post #5
Apologies I should have included that information in my last post. It certainly seems faster in that it opens files/controlpanel etc quicker than it did before undertaking the steps you advised. However still having to connect to Firefox through the control panel - network connections - route because if I try to do so from the Firefox icon on the desktop then I get error message 623 the system could not find the phone book entry for this connection.
Post #7
Hope I've understood your instuctions - I went into the Programs folder then to Firefox and double clicked the firefox.exe file - the same 623 error appeared
Post #9
OK have done that - I disconnected then tried to reconnect from the firefox desk top icon- the 623 message did not appear however the firefox start page displayed a problem loading page - with a dialogue box can't find server at en-gb.start3mozilla.com. This page has in fact been appearing for some time and hence I start though the network connections route which I have had to resort to again. I also need to report a change to the pc behaviour since I posted yesterday -it is now responding even slower than it was before I posted to the forum. For example it is taking over a minute to open Word and perhaps 10 secs to open control panel.
Post #10
I don't think the issues you have now are Malware related but lets run another tool.

Download ComboFix from one of these locations:

Link 1
Link 2 If using this link, Right Click and select Save As.


* IMPORTANT !!! Save ComboFix.exe to your Desktop


  • Disable your AntiVirus and AntiSpyware applications, usually via a right click on the System Tray icon. They may otherwise interfere with our tools. Note: If you are having difficulty properly disabling your protective programs, or are unsure as to what programs need to be disabled, please refer to the information available through this link : Protective Programs

  • Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.

    Notes: Combofix will run without the Recovery Console installed. Skip the Recovery Console part if you're running Vista or Windows 7.

    Note: If you have SP3, use the SP2 package.
    If Vista or Windows 7, skip the Recovery Console part
  • As part of it's process, ComboFix will check to see if the Microsoft Windows Recovery Console is installed. With malware infections being as they are today, it's strongly recommended to have this pre-installed on your machine before doing any malware removal. It will allow you to boot up into a special recovery/repair mode that will allow us to more easily help you should your computer have a problem after an attempted removal of malware.
  • Follow the prompts to allow ComboFix to download and install the Microsoft Windows Recovery Console, and when prompted, agree to the End-User License Agreement to install the Microsoft Windows Recovery Console.

**Please note: If the Microsoft Windows Recovery Console is already installed, ComboFix will continue it's malware removal procedures.


[external image: Posted Image]



Once the Microsoft Windows Recovery Console is installed using ComboFix, you should see the following message:

[external image: Posted Image]


Click on Yes, to continue scanning for malware.

When finished, it shall produce a log for you. Please include the C:\ComboFix.txt using Copy / Paste in your next reply.


Notes:

1.Do not mouse-click Combofix's window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
2. ComboFix may reset a number of Internet Explorer's settings, including making I-E the default browser.
3. Combofix prevents autorun of ALL CD, floppy and USB devices to assist with malware removal & increase security. If this is an issue or makes it difficult for you – please tell your helper.
4. CF disconnects your machine from the internet. The connection is automatically restored before CF completes its run. If CF runs into difficulty and terminates prematurely, the connection can be manually restored by restarting your machine.

Give it atleast 20-30 minutes to finish if needed.

Please do not attach the scan results from Combofx. Use copy/paste.

Also please describe how your computer behaves at the moment.
Post #11
ok tried to follow your instructions but you should note
the program did not download onto the desktop but rather to Documents and settings - did that automatically

During the scan a window from Spywareguard popped up - I mustn't have disabled that - to be honest I'm not really sure what malware/spyware protection I've got - some of it is from the last time I had problems and came onto this site a few years ago.

I have put the Norton firewall back on but have not tried to restore the other sttings I disabled from other programs - is that ok

Log is below and the speed test as tested by time to load word is now good - loads immediately.


Log is below

ComboFix 10-07-30.01 - Norman 30/07/2010 23:23:43.1.1 - x86
Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition 5.1.2600.3.1252.1.1033.18.1022.297 [GMT 1:00]
Running from: c:\documents and settings\[removed]\My Documents\Downloads\ComboFix.exe
.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Other Deletions )))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
.

c:\windows\dbxesellerate.exe
c:\windows\system32\drivers\fad.sys
c:\windows\TEMP\logishrd\LVPrcInj02.dll

.
((((((((((((((((((((((((( Files Created from 2010-06-28 to 2010-07-30 )))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
.

2010-07-30 12:18 . 2010-07-30 12:18 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\Windows Media Connect 2
2010-07-30 12:15 . 2010-07-30 12:16 ——– d—–w- c:\windows\system32\drivers\UMDF
2010-07-30 12:15 . 2010-07-30 12:15 ——– d—–w- c:\windows\system32\LogFiles
2010-07-28 16:30 . 2010-07-28 16:30 ——– d—–w- c:\documents and settings\Norman\Application Data\Malwarebytes
2010-07-28 16:29 . 2010-04-29 14:39 38224 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\drivers\mbamswissarmy.sys
2010-07-28 16:29 . 2010-07-28 16:29 ——– d—–w- c:\documents and settings\All Users\Application Data\Malwarebytes
2010-07-28 16:29 . 2010-07-28 16:29 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware
2010-07-28 16:29 . 2010-04-29 14:39 20952 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\drivers\mbam.sys
2010-07-24 19:37 . 2008-04-17 11:12 107368 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\GEARAspi.dll
2010-07-24 19:35 . 2010-07-24 19:37 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\iTunes
2010-07-24 17:50 . 2010-07-24 17:52 ——– d—–w- c:\documents and settings\All Users\Application Data\{429CAD59-35B1-4DBC-BB6D-1DB246563521}
2010-07-24 17:30 . 2010-07-24 17:30 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\Bonjour
2010-07-24 17:22 . 2010-07-24 17:23 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\Safari
2010-07-14 09:28 . 2010-06-14 14:31 744448 ——w- c:\windows\system32\dllcache\helpsvc.exe
2010-07-14 09:18 . 2010-07-14 09:18 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\Common Files\Skype

.
(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Find3M Report ))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
.
2010-07-30 22:42 . 2008-12-21 11:27 ——– d—–w- c:\documents and settings\Norman\Application Data\skypePM
2010-07-30 22:41 . 2008-12-21 11:19 ——– d—–w- c:\documents and settings\Norman\Application Data\Skype
2010-07-29 09:25 . 2007-05-20 10:46 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\FinePixViewer
2010-07-25 18:42 . 2006-07-03 16:39 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\CCleaner
2010-07-24 19:35 . 2005-12-08 12:27 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\iPod
2010-07-24 19:35 . 2009-02-02 21:08 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\Common Files\Apple
2010-07-24 19:17 . 2005-12-08 12:31 ——– d—–w- c:\documents and settings\Norman\Application Data\Apple Computer
2010-07-24 17:40 . 2009-12-30 18:33 ——– d—–w- c:\program files\QuickTime
2010-06-28 12:48 . 2005-12-26 20:01 992 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\d3d8caps.dat
2010-05-21 13:14 . 2009-10-03 07:06 221568 ——w- c:\windows\system32\MpSigStub.exe
2010-05-18 15:35 . 2010-05-18 15:35 91424 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\dnssd.dll
2010-05-18 15:35 . 2010-05-18 15:35 197920 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\dnssdX.dll
2010-05-18 15:35 . 2010-05-18 15:35 107808 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\dns-sd.exe
2010-05-04 17:20 . 2004-02-06 17:05 832512 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\wininet.dll
2010-05-04 17:20 . 2004-08-27 15:58 78336 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\ieencode.dll
2010-05-04 17:20 . 2002-08-29 04:00 17408 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\corpol.dll
2010-05-02 05:22 . 2002-08-29 04:00 1851264 —-a-w- c:\windows\system32\win32k.sys
2006-03-19 13:08 . 2006-01-24 00:20 7984736 —-a-w- c:\program files\ewido-setup.exe
2006-02-17 17:20 . 2006-02-17 17:20 243512 —-a-w- c:\program files\jre-1_5_0_06-windows-i586-p-iftw.exe
2006-02-04 22:35 . 2006-02-04 22:35 442368 —-a-w- c:\program files\ie-spyad.exe
2006-01-24 19:11 . 2006-01-24 00:53 77136 —-a-w- c:\program files\SignaturesCleaner.exe
2006-01-23 23:07 . 2006-01-23 23:07 5037072 —-a-w- c:\program files\spybotsd14.exe
2005-12-09 18:09 . 2005-12-09 18:09 6910088 —-a-w- c:\program files\MicrosoftAntiSpywareInstall.exe
.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Reg Loading Points ))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
.
.
*Note* empty entries & legit default entries are not shown
REGEDIT4

[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run]
"swg"="c:\program files\Google\GoogleToolbarNotifier\GoogleToolbarNotifier.exe" [2007-06-24 68856]
"Skype"="c:\program files\Skype\\Phone\Skype.exe" [2010-05-13 26192168]

[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce]
""="c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\firefox.exe" [2010-07-21 908248]

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run]
"IgfxTray"="c:\windows\system32\igfxtray.exe" [2005-10-19 155648]
"HotKeysCmds"="c:\windows\system32\hkcmd.exe" [2005-10-19 126976]
"PCMService"="c:\program files\Dell\Media Experience\PCMService.exe" [2004-04-11 290816]
"DVDLauncher"="c:\program files\CyberLink\PowerDVD\DVDLauncher.exe" [2004-04-11 53248]
"IntelMeM"="c:\program files\Intel\Modem Event Monitor\IntelMEM.exe" [2003-09-03 221184]
"dla"="c:\windows\system32\dla\tfswctrl.exe" [2004-03-15 122933]
"UpdateManager"="c:\program files\Common Files\Sonic\Update Manager\sgtray.exe" [2003-08-19 110592]
"AOLDialer"="c:\program files\Common Files\AOL\ACS\AOLDial.exe" [2004-02-25 496752]
"AOL Spyware Protection"="c:\progra~1\COMMON~1\AOL\AOLSPY~1\AOLSP Scheduler.exe" [2004-02-16 147456]
"Windows Defender"="c:\program files\Windows Defender\MSASCui.exe" [2006-11-03 866584]
"SpeedTouch USB Diagnostics"="c:\program files\Thomson\SpeedTouch USB\Dragdiag.exe" [2004-01-26 866816]
"TkBellExe"="c:\program files\Common Files\Real\Update_OB\realsched.exe" [2007-12-02 185896]
"CanonSolutionMenu"="c:\program files\Canon\SolutionMenu\CNSLMAIN.exe" [2007-05-14 644696]
"CanonMyPrinter"="c:\program files\Canon\MyPrinter\BJMyPrt.exe" [2007-04-03 1603152]
"SSBkgdUpdate"="c:\program files\Common Files\Scansoft Shared\SSBkgdUpdate\SSBkgdupdate.exe" [2006-10-25 210472]
"OpwareSE4"="c:\program files\ScanSoft\OmniPageSE4\OpwareSE4.exe" [2007-02-04 79400]
"REGSHAVE"="c:\program files\REGSHAVE\REGSHAVE.EXE" [2002-02-04 53248]
"ArcSoft Connection Service"="c:\program files\Common Files\ArcSoft\Connection Service\Bin\ACDaemon.exe" [2008-04-17 98616]
"Ad-Watch"="c:\program files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\AAWTray.exe" [2010-03-01 524632]
"LogitechCommunicationsManager"="c:\program files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LComMgr\Communications_Helper.exe" [2008-08-14 565008]
"LogitechQuickCamRibbon"="c:\program files\Logitech\QuickCam\Quickcam.exe" [2008-08-14 2407184]
"SunJavaUpdateSched"="c:\program files\Common Files\Java\Java Update\jusched.exe" [2010-02-18 248040]
"QuickTime Task"="c:\program files\QuickTime\QTTask.exe" [2010-03-18 421888]
"iTunesHelper"="c:\program files\iTunes\iTunesHelper.exe" [2010-07-21 141608]
"AppleSyncNotifier"="c:\program files\Common Files\Apple\Mobile Device Support\AppleSyncNotifier.exe" [2010-07-13 47904]

[HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run]
"CTFMON.EXE"="c:\windows\System32\CTFMON.EXE" [2008-04-14 15360]
"DWQueuedReporting"="c:\progra~1\COMMON~1\MICROS~1\DW\dwtrig20.exe" [2003-07-15 34880]

c:\documents and settings\Norman\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\
SpywareGuard.lnk - c:\program files\SpywareGuard\sgmain.exe [2003-8-29 360448]

c:\documents and settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\
Adobe Reader Speed Launch.lnk - c:\program files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\Reader\reader_sl.exe [2008-4-23 29696]
AOL 9.0 Tray Icon.lnk - c:\program files\AOL 9.0\aoltray.exe [2004-8-17 156784]
Exif Launcher 2.lnk - c:\program files\FinePixViewer\QuickDCF2.exe [2008-7-14 294912]
LG Sync Manager.lnk - c:\program files\LG PC Suite\LG PC Sync\LGSyncManager.exe [2004-4-23 282624]
LG SyncManager.lnk - c:\program files\LG PC Suite\LG PC Sync\LGSyncManager.exe [2004-4-23 282624]
Microsoft Office.lnk - c:\program files\Microsoft Office\Office10\OSA.EXE [2001-2-13 83360]

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SafeBoot\Minimal\AVG Anti-Spyware Guard]
@="Service"

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SafeBoot\Minimal\Lavasoft Ad-Aware Service]
@="Service"

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SafeBoot\Minimal\SymEFA.sys]
@="FSFilter Activity Monitor"

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SafeBoot\Minimal\WinDefend]
@="Service"

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\software\microsoft\shared tools\msconfig\startupreg\SpeedTouch USB Diagnostics]
2004-01-26 10:38 866816 —-a-w- c:\program files\Thomson\SpeedTouch USB\dragdiag.exe

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\software\microsoft\security center\Monitoring]
"DisableMonitoring"=dword:00000001

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\software\microsoft\security center\Monitoring\SymantecAntiVirus]
"DisableMonitoring"=dword:00000001

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\software\microsoft\security center\Monitoring\SymantecFirewall]
"DisableMonitoring"=dword:00000001

[HKLM\~\services\sharedaccess\parameters\firewallpolicy\standardprofile]
"EnableFirewall"= 0 (0x0)

[HKLM\~\services\sharedaccess\parameters\firewallpolicy\standardprofile\AuthorizedApplications\List]
"%windir%\\system32\\sessmgr.exe"=
"c:\\Program Files\\Messenger\\msmsgs.exe"=
"%windir%\\Network Diagnostic\\xpnetdiag.exe"=
"c:\\Program Files\\Skype\\Plugin Manager\\skypePM.exe"=
"c:\\Program Files\\Bonjour\\mDNSResponder.exe"=
"c:\\Program Files\\iTunes\\iTunes.exe"=
"c:\\Program Files\\Skype\\Phone\\Skype.exe"=

R0 Lbd;Lbd;c:\windows\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\Lbd.sys [11/02/2009 21:33 64160]
R0 SymEFA;Symantec Extended File Attributes;c:\windows\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\NIS\1008000.029\SymEFA.sys [28/01/2010 12:31 310320]
R1 BHDrvx86;Symantec Heuristics Driver;c:\windows\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\NIS\1008000.029\BHDrvx86.sys [28/01/2010 12:31 259632]
R1 ccHP;Symantec Hash Provider;c:\windows\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\NIS\1008000.029\cchpx86.sys [28/01/2010 12:31 482432]
R1 IDSxpx86;IDSxpx86;c:\documents and settings\All Users\Application Data\Norton\{0C55C096-0F1D-4F28-AAA2-85EF591126E7}\Norton\Definitions\IPSDefs\20100729.001\IDSXpx86.sys [30/07/2010 09:27 331640]
R2 Norton Internet Security;Norton Internet Security;c:\program files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\ccSvcHst.exe [28/01/2010 12:31 117640]
R3 EraserUtilRebootDrv;EraserUtilRebootDrv;c:\program files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\EENGINE\EraserUtilRebootDrv.sys [27/05/2010 22:17 102448]
S2 WinDefend;Windows Defender;c:\program files\Windows Defender\MsMpEng.exe [03/11/2006 19:19 13592]
S3 APL531;OVT Scanner;c:\windows\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ov550i.sys [31/07/2006 13:44 580992]
S3 Lavasoft Ad-Aware Service;Lavasoft Ad-Aware Service;c:\program files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\AAWService.exe [18/01/2009 22:34 1029456]
.
Contents of the 'Scheduled Tasks' folder

2010-07-26 c:\windows\Tasks\Ad-Aware Update (Weekly).job
- c:\program files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\Ad-AwareAdmin.exe [2009-01-18 20:32]

2010-07-27 c:\windows\Tasks\AppleSoftwareUpdate.job
- c:\program files\Apple Software Update\SoftwareUpdate.exe [2008-07-30 12:34]
.
.
——- Supplementary Scan ——-
.
uSearchMigratedDefaultURL = hxxp://www.google.com/search?q={searchTerms}&sourceid=ie7&rls=com.microsoft:en-US&ie=utf8&oe=utf8
uInternet Settings,ProxyOverride = *.local
uSearchURL,(Default) = hxxp://www.google.com/keyword/%s
FF - ProfilePath - c:\documents and settings\Norman\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\psrudqgc.newfirefox\
FF - component: c:\documents and settings\All Users\Application Data\Norton\{0C55C096-0F1D-4F28-AAA2-85EF591126E7}\Norton\coFFPlgn\components\coFFPlgn.dll
FF - component: c:\documents and settings\All Users\Application Data\Norton\{0C55C096-0F1D-4F28-AAA2-85EF591126E7}\Norton\IPSFFPlgn\components\IPSFFPl.dll
FF - plugin: c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\plugins\npdeployJava1.dll
FF - plugin: c:\program files\Viewpoint\Viewpoint Experience Technology\npViewpoint.dll
FF - plugin: c:\windows\system32\DNAML\npdbplug.dll

—- FIREFOX POLICIES —-
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\all.js - pref("network.IDN.whitelist.lu", true);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\all.js - pref("network.IDN.whitelist.nu", true);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\all.js - pref("network.IDN.whitelist.nz", true);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\all.js - pref("network.IDN.whitelist.xn–mgbaam7a8h", true);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\all.js - pref("network.IDN.whitelist.xn–mgberp4a5d4ar", true);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\all.js - pref("network.IDN.whitelist.xn–p1ai", true);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\all.js - pref("network.IDN.whitelist.xn–mgbayh7gpa", true);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\all.js - pref("network.IDN.whitelist.tel", true);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\security-prefs.js - pref("security.ssl.allow_unrestricted_renego_everywhere__temporarily_available_pr
ef", true);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\security-prefs.js - pref("security.ssl.renego_unrestricted_hosts", "");
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\security-prefs.js - pref("security.ssl.treat_unsafe_negotiation_as_broken", false);
c:\program files\Mozilla Firefox\greprefs\security-prefs.js - pref("security.ssl.require_safe_negotiation", false);
.
- - - - ORPHANS REMOVED - - - -

HKU-Default-Run-ALUAlert - c:\program files\Symantec\LiveUpdate\ALUNotify.exe
SafeBoot-AVG Anti-Spyware Driver
AddRemove-OVT Scanner - c:\windows\omniuns.exe USB\Vid_05a9&PID_1550 OVT Scanner



**************************************************************************

catchme 0.3.1398 W2K/XP/Vista - rootkit/stealth malware detector by Gmer, http://www.gmer.net
Rootkit scan 2010-07-30 23:43
Windows 5.1.2600 Service Pack 3 NTFS

scanning hidden processes …

scanning hidden autostart entries …

scanning hidden files …

scan completed successfully
hidden files: 0

**************************************************************************

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\ControlSet002\Services\Norton Internet Security]
"ImagePath"="\"c:\program files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\ccSvcHst.exe\" /s \"Norton Internet Security\" /m \"c:\program files\Norton Internet Security\Engine\16.8.0.41\diMaster.dll\" /prefetch:1"
.
——————— DLLs Loaded Under Running Processes ———————

- - - - - - - > 'explorer.exe'(552)
c:\windows\system32\WININET.dll
c:\windows\TEMP\logishrd\LVPrcInj01.dll
c:\program files\ScanSoft\OmniPageSE4\OpHookSE4.dll
c:\windows\system32\ieframe.dll
c:\windows\system32\WPDShServiceObj.dll
c:\windows\system32\PortableDeviceTypes.dll
c:\windows\system32\PortableDeviceApi.dll
.
———————— Other Running Processes ————————
.
c:\windows\system32\LEXBCES.EXE
c:\windows\system32\LEXPPS.EXE
c:\program files\Common Files\ArcSoft\Connection Service\Bin\ACService.exe
c:\progra~1\COMMON~1\AOL\ACS\AOLacsd.exe
c:\program files\Common Files\Apple\Mobile Device Support\AppleMobileDeviceService.exe
c:\program files\Grisoft\AVG Anti-Spyware 7.5\guard.exe
c:\windows\SYSTEM32\bgsvcgen.exe
c:\program files\Bonjour\mDNSResponder.exe
c:\program files\Java\jre6\bin\jqs.exe
c:\program files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LVCOMSER\LVComSer.exe
c:\program files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LVMVFM\LVPrcSrv.exe
c:\windows\system32\UStorSrv.exe
c:\program files\Common Files\LogiShrd\LVCOMSER\LVComSer.exe
c:\windows\system32\wscntfy.exe
c:\program files\Skype\Phone\Skype.exe
c:\program files\Common Files\Logishrd\LQCVFX\COCIManager.exe
c:\program files\SpywareGuard\sgbhp.exe
c:\program files\Skype\Plugin Manager\skypePM.exe
c:\program files\iPod\bin\iPodService.exe
.
**************************************************************************
.
Completion time: 2010-07-30 23:53:05 - machine was rebooted
ComboFix-quarantined-files.txt 2010-07-30 22:52

Pre-Run: 49,322,467,328 bytes free
Post-Run: 49,643,098,112 bytes free

WindowsXP-KB310994-SP2-Home-BootDisk-ENU.exe
[boot loader]
timeout=2
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(2)\WINDOWS
[operating systems]
c:\cmdcons\BOOTSECT.DAT="Microsoft Windows Recovery Console" /cmdcons
Post #12
c:\windows\dbxesellerate.exe

I beleive that was a trojan.



Good job :thumbup:

The following will implement some cleanup procedures as well as reset System Restore points:

  • Click START run
  • Now type ComboFix /Uninstall in the runbox and click OK. Note the space between the X and the U, it needs to be there.

To be on the safe side, I would also change all my passwords.


This infection appears to have been cleaned, but as the malware could be configured to run any program a remote attacker requires, it's impossible to be 100% sure that any machine is clean.


Here's my usual all clean post

Log looks good :D


This infection appears to have been cleaned, but as the malware could be configured to run any program a remote attacker requires, it's impossible to be 100% sure that any machine is clean.


  • Make your Internet Explorer more secure - This can be done by following these simple instructions:
    • From within Internet Explorer click on the Tools menu and then click on Options.
    • Click once on the Security tab
    • Click once on the Internet icon so it becomes highlighted.
    • Click once on the Custom Level button.
    • Change the Download signed ActiveX controls to Prompt
    • Change the Download unsigned ActiveX controls to Disable
    • Change the Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe to Disable
    • Change the Installation of desktop items to Prompt
    • Change the Launching programs and files in an IFRAME to Prompt
    • Change the Navigate sub-frames across different domains to Prompt
    • When all these settings have been made, click on the OK button.
    • If it prompts you as to whether or not you want to save the settings, press the Yes button.
    • Next press the Apply button and then the OK to exit the Internet Properties page.
  • Update your AntiVirus Software - It is imperative that you update your Antivirus software at least once a week
    (Even more if you wish). If you do not update your antivirus software then it will not be able to catch any of the new variants that may come out.

  • Use a Firewall - I can not stress how important it is that you use a Firewall on your computer.
    Without a firewall your computer is succeptible to being hacked and taken over.
    I am very serious about this and see it happen almost every day with my clients.
    Simply using a Firewall in its default configuration can lower your risk greatly.

  • Visit Microsoft's Windows Update Site Frequently - It is important that you visit http://www.windowsupdate.com regularly.
    This will ensure your computer has always the latest security updates available installed on your computer.
    If there are new updates to install, install them immediately, reboot your computer, and revisit the site
    until there are no more critical updates.

Only run one Anti-Virus and Firewall program.


I would suggest you read:
PC Safety and Security–What Do I Need?.
How to Prevent Malware:
Post #13
Very many thanks I don't suppose it is possible to tell how long it has been there and what it does? Do I restore the settings on the adawre windows defender etc by reversing the process in the instrucctions in your link to turn them off? Another question if I may - when I get java updates should I delete the previous updates from the add/remove program section of control panel
Post #14

I don't suppose it is possible to tell how long it has been there and what it does?

Not that I know of.

Do I restore the settings on the adawre windows defender etc by reversing the process in the instrucctions in your link to turn them off?

Yes if they aren't already

Another question if I may - when I get java updates should I delete the previous updates from the add/remove program section of control panel

Yes, remove the old ones if listed in add/remove

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