about:blank

1- was the "network security service" a bogus service that the virus created & stuck the "apiso32.exe" in it?
i'm only asking because the service is gone completely from way back when we started the fix the first time.

Yes, this was a bogus service created by the About:Blank Trojan.

2- occasionally i'll get the windows security red shield popup in my startup section of the task bar (right side) with a balloon saying that my computer is at risk because it's not firewalled….i never click on the balloon, i just "x" it closed or it will go away in 3 or 4 seconds.
i went to my network places & i am firewalled.
i hope this is not residue from the virus trying to get me to open the balloon & let something in……….am i getting too paranoid?

I would recommend downloading and installing a software firewall instead of the built-in Windows Firewall. ZoneAlarm Firewall is a highly recommended and free program that will do a much better job than the Windows Firewall. It will block unwanted items from connecting to your computer as well as blocking programs on your computer from connecting to the Internet without your approval first. If you do download ZoneAlarm, be sure to turn off the Windows Firewall as the two programs may conflict if run together.

Glad we could be of assistance. This topic is now closed. If you wish it reopened, please send us an email (Click for address) with a link to your thread.

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Make sure you use proper prevention to keep from having problems occur to your computer in the future.

Coyote's Installed programs for prevention:

http://forums.tomcoyote.org/index.php?showtopic=31418