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[carnage]

Thank You Very Much Bobbye. You helped me big time. My parents were at the point where they were planning on getting my computer reformatted.

Anyways, thanks a million and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!

 

[Bobbye]

You're welcome. I think I forgot to tell you to Empty the Recycle Bin. Here are some tips for you and your parents:
Please follow these simple steps to keep your computer clean and secure:
1.Disable and Enable System Restore: This will help you to drop the old restore points and set a new, clean one:

System Restore Guide

2.Stay current on updates:

• Visit the Microsoft Download Sitefrequently.
  You should get All updates marked Critical and the current SP updates:Windows 2000> SP4, Windows XP> SP2, SP3, Vista> SP2
• Visit this Adobe Reader site often and make sure you have the most current update. Uninstall any earlier updates as they are vulnerabilities.
• Check this site often.Java Updates Stay current as most updates are for security. Uninstall any earlier versions in Add/Remove Programs.

3.Make Internet Explorer safer. Follow the suggestions HERE
This Tutorial will help guide you through Configuring Security Settings, Managing Active X Controls and other safety features.

4.Remove Temporary Internet Files regularly: Use

• ATF Cleaner by Atribune or
• TFC

5. Use an AntiVirus Software(only one)

• This can save you a lot of trouble with malware in the future.It should be kept updated and used to scan regularly.
• See This link for a listing of some online & their stand-alone antivirus programs:
  Virus, Spyware, and Malware Protection and Removal Resources

6.Use a good, bi-directional firewall(one software firewall)
See Understanding and Using Firewalls including links to download a firewall.

7.Consider these programs for Extra Security

• Spywareblaster:
• SpywareBlaster protects against bad ActiveX. It places kill bits to stop bad Active X controls from being installed. Remember to update it regularly.
• IE/Spyad
• This places over 4000 websites and domains in the IE Restricted list which will severely impair attempts to infect your system. It basically prevents any downloads (Cookies etc) from the sites listed, although you will still be able to connect to the sites.
• MVPS Hosts files This replaces your current HOSTS file with one containing well know ad sites etc. Basically, this prevents your computer from connecting to those sites by redirecting them to 127.0.0.1 which is your local computer.
• Google Toolbar Get the free google toolbar to help stop pop up windows.

Wishing you a Happy Holiday Season!