File recovery rogue scanner infection

There are 78 folders in the particular directory "Programs (x86)" but the "permissions" error seems to be happening on all my folders in the C: drive.

I haven't checked "all" my folders, I just caught this error because I need to use 2 programs to make progress on client work and I can't get my software to update nor to change things like rotating proxies. Other software that doesn't require proxy rotation seems to be fine (*although I just checked and the "other software" I've used today resides in the /Programs folder, not /Programs (x86) - and it doesn't require proxies).

They all reset to "read only" and even if I claim ownership I can't change that, it still reverts to "read only." I can use various document tools and save those to the desktop like normal; spreadsheets are fine, etc. But using and upgrading key software I can't escape the error nor can I use the software.

I'm not sure if I can use the software if I reinstalled in another folder or not, but it's frustrating to say the least.

It's still working on the final step but unlike last time, there aren't as many "failed" fixes. Hopefully this gets it done, am I to upload any logs this time around?

OK it's done but I don't see any files to show you if there were any.

I checked to see if I can use my programs now, it's not fixed. Same access denied error. The "programs (x86)" file is still defaulting to 'read only' but if I check my permissions, my username/admin account has full permission/full control of the entire folder and its contents. It's also what I'm logged in under.

It's weird: if I access the file from Windows Explorer > Computer > C > Programs x86, the permissions show I've got full control permissions. I checked the start menu and that folder showed permissions were "special permissions" only, so I set those to full control. That still didn't work, though. I can't use the tool.

It's not just the /programs (x86) folder. I have software saved to my desktop in different folders, apart from the programs folders. That won't update, either. On the other hand, Avast will update just fine, as will Malwarebytes. It's just certain tools I use for my productivity that won't work - and I've tried uninstalling/re-installing.

That took a while but it didn't change things. I even narrowed it down to the program folder of the particular software (there are 2 programs I'm trying to run) - no difference.

Broni - thanks for your help. Originally I wanted to avoid re-setting/re-installing Windows 7 because I couldn't export my files (I tried, couldn't even change permissions to un-hide files). So you've been a real champ and help through the process. I've managed to recover my files and I've reset Windows to OEM settings per HP, including resetting my admin account username and all the rest.

I've went back and downloaded the Avast software through Techspot's aff link, I do like Avast's features and it's the least I can do to say thanks (and if I could give you more of a donation I would, but there's that too - you earned a lot more than that). Thanks again for the help, things are much better now and I haven't lost my important data.

(^ HP meaning Hewlett-Packard, just in case that wasn't clear.)