also @ TechSpot: Intel confirms a smartwatch is in the pipeline

Google search links taking me to random unrelated sites and ads, etc

Discussion in 'Virus and Malware Removal' started by ihateviruses123, Sep 18, 2010.

  1. ihateviruses123 Newcomer, in training

    Here are the three files attached.

    Attached Files:

  2. Bobbye Helper on the Fringe Posts: 16,406   +17

    Have you been able to get Combofix to run?

    We're running out of options. You have infections but they won't move. I have tried to move explorer.exe and winlogon.exe but they won't move in what runs.

    Maybe you should tell me what the 'long story' is about the IT that couldn't fix the system.
  3. ihateviruses123 Newcomer, in training

    Bobbye, I've sent the comp in for repair. It was doing my head in trying to get rid of such a stubborn virus!! Thank you so so much for all your help and advice. I've learned a lot. Do you guys accept donations?
  4. Bobbye Helper on the Fringe Posts: 16,406   +17

    You're welcome for the help. Sorry we couldn't get it cleaned. I suspect the system will need to be wiped, reformatted and reinstalled. There is some very bad 'stuff' out there! I don't accept donations, although some do. TechSpot doesn't either, but thank you for the offer.

    Save this following to help keep the system clean.
    Note: Some of these programs may not work on Windows 7 or a 64bit OS.

    Tips for added security and safer browsing:
    1. Browser Security Settings: Custom is fine if the user did the settings. Mine are Custom. Default is okay too, but sometimes too restrictive.
      This Tutorial will help guide you through Configuring Security Settings, Managing Active X Controls and other safety features: Make Internet Explorer safer.
    2. Have layered Security:
      • Antivirus Software(only one):Both of the following programs are free and known to be good:
        [o]Avira Free
        [o]Avast Home
      • Firewall (only one): Use bi-directional firewall. Both of the following programs are free and known to be good:
        [o]Comodo
        [o]Zone Alarm
      • Antispyware: I recommend all of the following:
        [o]Spywareblaster: SpywareBlaster protects against bad ActiveX. It places kill bits to stop bad Active X controls from being installed. Remember to update it regularly.
      [o]Download ZonedOut and save to your desktop. this replaces IE/Spyad and manages the Zones in Internet explorer. 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.
      For IE7 and IE8, Windows 2000 thru Vista. No Windows 7 yet.
      IE/Spyad is not longer being supported. If you have this on your system, you should replace it with the following program. Make sure your IE8 is Up-to-date before adding sites to your restricted zone.
      Known issue: If you have "immunized" your computer with Spybot Search and Destroy, and use ZonedOut to "Remove All" restricted sites - ZonedOut will remove your trusted sites as well. Note that if you remove Spybot Search and Destroys Immunization the problem goes away...
      [o]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.
      [o]Google Toolbar Get the free google toolbar to help stop pop up windows.
    3. Stay current on updates:
      [o] Visit the Microsoft Download Sitefrequently. You should get All updates marked Critical and the current SP updates.
      [o]Visit this Adobe Reader site often and make sure you have the most current update. Uninstall any earlier updates as they are vulnerabilities.
      [o]Check this site .Java Updates Stay current as most updates are for security. Uninstall any earlier versions in Add/Remove Programs.
    4. Reset Cookies to prevent Tracking Cookies:
      [o]For Internet Explorer: Internet Options (through Tools or Control Panel) Privacy tab> Advanced button> check 'override automatic Cookie handling'> check 'accept first party Cookies'> check 'Block third party Cookies'> check 'allow per session Cookies'> Apply> OK.
      [o]For Firefox: Tools> Options> Privacy> Cookies> check ‘accept Cookies from Sites’> Uncheck 'accept third party Cookies'> Set Keep until 'they expire'. This will allow you to keep Cookies for registered sites and prevent or remove others. (Note: for Firefox v3.5, after Privacy click on 'use custom settings for History.')
      I suggest using the following two add-on for Firefox. They will prevent the Tracking Cookies that come from ads and banners and other sources:
      AdBlock Plus
      Easy List
    5. Do regular Maintenance
      Remove Temporary Internet Files regularly:
      [o]ATF Cleaner by Atribune
      OR
      [o]TFC
      Disable and Enable System Restore:
      [o]See System Restore Guide This will help you understand what this is, why you need to clean and set restore points and what information is in them.
    6. Practice Safe Email Handling
      [o] Don't open email from anyone you don't know.
      [o] Don't open Attachments in the email. Safe to your desktop and scan for viruses using a right click
      [o] Don't leave your personal email address on the internet. Have a separate email account at one of the free web-based emails like Yahoo.