I thought that you might not have used Safe Mode. Glad that worked for you.
Is there anything you recommend I do to safe guard my pc from these type of infections in the future?
Yes, keep in mind that YOU are the first line of security for your computer! Where you go, what you do, how you handle mails and attachments, where you leave your email address. So, if you'll forgive me, I'm going to put your user name to 'use:
BWise is which site you surf to.
BWise and don't click on pop-ups.
BWise and don't open email from someone you don't know.
BWise and don't open attachments EVEN if they are from someone you know unless you know they are coming and what the content is.
BWise and never leave your personal email address on the internet.
BWise and install one good antivirus program, one firewall and at least 2 spyware/adware programs. Update and scan with them regularly.
BWise and stay away from file sharing programs and sites.
BWise and be careful of what you down;oad and the site you download from.
BWise and only have those processes starting on boot that you need: the antivirus, firewall (if you have 3rd. party firewall, touchpad for laptop, possible network process.
BWise and do regular maintenance on the system: disc cleanups, error check, defrag, uninstall any program you aren't using.
If you are really this 'wise', you should have safe and enjoyable computing!