popups (and other troubles) - please help

[jubsickles]

i am currently under attack from popups. my browser is msn premium provided by verizon (dsl), and it's popup blocker usually catches all popups. today i've been inundated with popups.

i've also had an ongoing problem with my trackpad malfunctioning - it doesn't track properly, and won't scroll. attempts to reinstall the driver, and adjust properties haven't helped.

i'm also experiencing SLOOOOOOW start-up's and shut-down's. i've attempted to clean the registry (using registry mechanic) but that hasn't helped either.

i purchased ad-aware se plus which found & fixed several problems. i also have mcafee anti-virus, spybot s&d, ewido anti-malware, and spysweeper for msn. i've run all of these programs (nearly every day) and still the problems continue. i have also used spyware doctor's free version, and am considering purchasing the full program (any recommendations on purchasing this program?)

all help/insight is greatly appreciated.

cheers,
justin

here is the highjackthis log:

Logfile of HijackThis v1.99.1
Scan saved at 5:55:16 PM, on 5/28/2006
Platform: Windows XP SP2 (WinNT 5.01.2600)
MSIE: Internet Explorer v6.00 SP2 (6.00.2900.2180)

Running processes:
C:\WINDOWS\System32\smss.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\csrss.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\winlogon.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\services.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\lsass.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MsMpEng.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\Ati2evxx.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\cisvc.exe
C:\Program Files\ewido anti-malware\ewidoctrl.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\drivers\KodakCCS.exe
c:\program files\mcafee.com\agent\mcdetect.exe
c:\PROGRA~1\mcafee.com\vso\mcshield.exe
c:\PROGRA~1\mcafee.com\agent\mctskshd.exe
c:\PROGRA~1\mcafee.com\vso\OasClnt.exe
c:\program files\mcafee.com\vso\mcvsshld.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\McAfee.com\PERSON~1\MPFSERVICE.exe
c:\program files\mcafee.com\agent\mcagent.exe
C:\Program Files\Spyware Doctor\sdhelp.exe
c:\progra~1\mcafee.com\vso\mcvsescn.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Webroot\Spy Sweeper\WRSSSDK.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\wdfmgr.exe
C:\Program Files\UPHClean\uphclean.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\alg.exe
C:\Program Files\NETGEAR\WG511\Utility\WG511WLU.exe
C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\HP Share-to-Web\hpgs2wnd.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\carpserv.exe
C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\Digital Imaging\Unload\hpqcmon.exe
C:\Program Files\ATI Technologies\ATI Control Panel\atiptaxx.exe
C:\Program Files\Roxio\Easy CD Creator 5\DirectCD\DirectCD.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\McAfee.com\PERSON~1\MpfTray.exe
C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MSASCui.exe
C:\Program Files\QuickTime\qttask.exe
C:\Program Files\Synaptics\SynTP\SynTPLpr.exe
C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\HP Share-to-Web\hpgs2wnf.exe
C:\Program Files\Synaptics\SynTP\SynTPEnh.exe
C:\Program Files\Webroot\Spy Sweeper\SpySweeper.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\McAfee.com\PERSON~1\MpfAgent.exe
C:\Program Files\Dell Support\DSAgnt.exe
C:\Program Files\Skype\Phone\Skype.exe
C:\Program Files\Spyware Doctor\swdoctor.exe
C:\Program Files\Digital Line Detect\DLG.exe
C:\Program Files\Kodak\Kodak EasyShare software\bin\EasyShare.exe
C:\Program Files\Verizon Online\SupportCenter\bin\mpbtn.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\cidaemon.exe
C:\Program Files\MSN Messenger\msnmsgr.exe
c:\progra~1\mcafee.com\vso\mcvsftsn.exe
C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
C:\Program Files\MSN\MSNCoreFiles\MSN.EXE
C:\PROGRA~1\WINZIP\winzip32.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\justin\My Documents\Unzipped\hijackthis\HijackThis.exe

R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Window Title = Microsoft Internet Explorer provided by Verizon Online
O2 - BHO: PCTools Site Guard - {5C8B2A36-3DB1-42A4-A3CB-D426709BBFEB} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYWAR~2\tools\iesdsg.dll
O2 - BHO: PCTools Browser Monitor - {B56A7D7D-6927-48C8-A975-17DF180C71AC} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYWAR~2\tools\iesdpb.dll
O2 - BHO: EpsonToolBandKicker Class - {E99421FB-68DD-40F0-B4AC-B7027CAE2F1A} - blank (file missing)
O3 - Toolbar: McAfee VirusScan - {BA52B914-B692-46c4-B683-905236F6F655} - c:\progra~1\mcafee.com\vso\mcvsshl.dll
O3 - Toolbar: EPSON Web-To-Page - {EE5D279F-081B-4404-994D-C6B60AAEBA6D} - blank (file missing)
O3 - Toolbar: Adobe PDF - {47833539-D0C5-4125-9FA8-0819E2EAAC93} - blank (file missing)
O3 - Toolbar: AOL Toolbar - {DE9C389F-3316-41A7-809B-AA305ED9D922} - blank (file missing)
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [WG511WLU] C:\Program Files\NETGEAR\WG511\Utility\WG511WLU.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [VSOCheckTask] "C:\PROGRA~1\McAfee.com\VSO\mcmnhdlr.exe" /checktask
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [VirusScan Online] C:\Program Files\McAfee.com\VSO\mcvsshld.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Share-to-Web Namespace Daemon] C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\HP Share-to-Web\hpgs2wnd.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [MCUpdateExe] c:\PROGRA~1\mcafee.com\agent\mcupdate.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [MCAgentExe] c:\PROGRA~1\mcafee.com\agent\mcagent.exe files\mcafee.com\agent\mcagent.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [CARPService] carpserv.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [CamMonitor] C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\Digital Imaging\Unload\hpqcmon.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [ATIPTA] C:\Program Files\ATI Technologies\ATI Control Panel\atiptaxx.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [ATIModeChange] Ati2mdxx.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [AdaptecDirectCD] "C:\Program Files\Roxio\Easy CD Creator 5\DirectCD\DirectCD.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [MPFExe] C:\PROGRA~1\McAfee.com\PERSON~1\MpfTray.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [OASClnt] C:\Program Files\McAfee.com\VSO\oasclnt.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Windows Defender] "C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MSASCui.exe" -hide
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [QuickTime Task] "C:\Program Files\QuickTime\qttask.exe" -atboottime
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SynTPLpr] C:\Program Files\Synaptics\SynTP\SynTPLpr.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SynTPEnh] C:\Program Files\Synaptics\SynTP\SynTPEnh.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SpySweeper] "C:\Program Files\Webroot\Spy Sweeper\SpySweeper.exe" /startintray
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [DellSupport] "C:\Program Files\Dell Support\DSAgnt.exe" /startup
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Skype] "C:\Program Files\Skype\Phone\Skype.exe" /nosplash /minimized
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Spyware Doctor] "C:\Program Files\Spyware Doctor\swdoctor.exe" /Q
O4 - Global Startup: Adobe Reader Speed Launch.lnk = C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\Reader\reader_sl.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Digital Line Detect.lnk = ?
O4 - Global Startup: Kodak EasyShare software.lnk = C:\Program Files\Kodak\Kodak EasyShare software\bin\EasyShare.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Microsoft Office.lnk = C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office10\OSA.EXE
O4 - Global Startup: Verizon Online Dialer.lnk = C:\Program Files\Common Files\Verizon Online\ConnMgr\Verizon Online.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Verizon Online Support Center.lnk = C:\Program Files\Verizon Online\SupportCenter\bin\matcli.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Windows Desktop Search.lnk = C:\Program Files\MSN Toolbar Suite\DS\02.05.0001.1119\en-us\bin\WindowsSearch.exe
O6 - HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Control Panel present
O8 - Extra context menu item: &AIM Search - res://C:\Program Files\AIM Toolbar\AIMBar.dll/aimsearch.htm
O8 - Extra context menu item: &AOL Toolbar Search - res://c:\program files\aol\aol toolbar 2.0\aoltbhtml.dll/search.html
O8 - Extra context menu item: &MSN Search - res://C:\Program Files\MSN Toolbar Suite\TB\02.05.0001.1119\en-us\msntb.dll/search.htm
O8 - Extra context menu item: &Yahoo! Search - file:///C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Common/ycsrch.htm
O8 - Extra context menu item: E&xport to Microsoft Excel - res://C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~2\Office10\EXCEL.EXE/3000
O8 - Extra context menu item: Open in new background tab - res://C:\Program Files\MSN Toolbar Suite\TAB\02.05.0001.1119\en-us\msntabres.dll/229?dda1957b45a64d34ad893d81ae6a183e
O8 - Extra context menu item: Open in new foreground tab - res://C:\Program Files\MSN Toolbar Suite\TAB\02.05.0001.1119\en-us\msntabres.dll/230?dda1957b45a64d34ad893d81ae6a183e
O8 - Extra context menu item: Yahoo! &Dictionary - file:///C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Common/ycdict.htm
O8 - Extra context menu item: Yahoo! &Maps - file:///C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Common/ycmap.htm
O8 - Extra context menu item: Yahoo! &SMS - file:///C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Common/ycsms.htm
O9 - Extra button: Spyware Doctor - {2D663D1A-8670-49D9-A1A5-4C56B4E14E84} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYWAR~2\tools\iesdpb.dll
O9 - Extra button: AIM - {AC9E2541-2814-11d5-BC6D-00B0D0A1DE45} - C:\Program Files\AIM\aim.exe
O16 - DPF: {01A88BB1-1174-41EC-ACCB-963509EAE56B} (SysProWmi Class) - http://support.dell.com/systemprofiler/SysPro.CAB
O16 - DPF: {17492023-C23A-453E-A040-C7C580BBF700} (Windows Genuine Advantage Validation Tool) - http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkid=39204
O16 - DPF: {30528230-99f7-4bb4-88d8-fa1d4f56a2ab} (YInstStarter Class) - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Common\yinsthelper.dll
O16 - DPF: {4ED9DDF0-7479-4BBE-9335-5A1EDB1D8A21} (McAfee.com Operating System Class) - http://download.mcafee.com/molbin/shared/mcinsctl/en-us/4,0,0,84/mcinsctl.cab
O16 - DPF: {596AF4AC-40A0-474A-9F86-33F0A90F0FD6} (PictureItLauncher Class) - http://photos.msn.com/resources/neutral/controls/DigWebX2.cab
O16 - DPF: {6E32070A-766D-4EE6-879C-DC1FA91D2FC3} (MUWebControl Class) - http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/V5Controls/en/x86/client/muweb_site.cab?1130117399740
O16 - DPF: {7E0FDFBB-87D4-43A1-9AD4-41F0EA8AFF7B} (Net6Launcher Class) - https://66.118.66.2/net6helper.cab
O16 - DPF: {90C9629E-CD32-11D3-BBFB-00105A1F0D68} (InstallShield International Setup Player) - http://www.installengine.com/engine/isetup.cab
O16 - DPF: {94B82441-A413-4E43-8422-D49930E69764} - https://webchat.dell.com/Media/VisitorChat/TLIEFlash.CAB
O16 - DPF: {9FC5238F-12C4-454F-B1B5-74599A21DE47} (Webshots Photo Uploader) - http://community.webshots.com/html/WSPhotoUploader.CAB
O16 - DPF: {BCC0FF27-31D9-4614-A68E-C18E1ADA4389} (DwnldGroupMgr Class) - http://download.mcafee.com/molbin/shared/mcgdmgr/1,0,0,26/mcgdmgr.cab
O16 - DPF: {D719897A-B07A-4C0C-AEA9-9B663A28DFCB} (iTunesDetector Class) - http://ax.phobos.apple.com.edgesuite.net/detection/ITDetector.cab
O16 - DPF: {EF791A6B-FC12-4C68-99EF-FB9E207A39E6} (McFreeScan Class) - http://download.mcafee.com/molbin/iss-loc/mcfscan/2,1,0,4734/mcfscan.cab
O16 - DPF: {FA3662C3-B8E8-11D6-A667-0010B556D978} (IWinAmpActiveX Class) - http://cdn.digitalcity.com/_media/dalaillama/ampx.cab
O17 - HKLM\System\CCS\Services\Tcpip\..\{7CC768BB-70FA-422D-BABB-3E3A00E6A142}: NameServer = 38.9.213.2,4.2.2.2
O18 - Protocol: msnim - {828030A1-22C1-4009-854F-8E305202313F} - "C:\PROGRA~1\MSNMES~1\msgrapp.dll" (file missing)
O20 - Winlogon Notify: WgaLogon - C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\WgaLogon.dll
O20 - Winlogon Notify: WRNotifier - C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\WRLogonNTF.dll
O23 - Service: Ati HotKey Poller - Unknown owner - C:\WINDOWS\System32\Ati2evxx.exe
O23 - Service: ewido security suite control - ewido networks - C:\Program Files\ewido anti-malware\ewidoctrl.exe
O23 - Service: InstallDriver Table Manager (IDriverT) - Macrovision Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\InstallShield\Driver\11\Intel 32\IDriverT.exe
O23 - Service: iPodService - Apple Computer, Inc. - C:\Program Files\iPod\bin\iPodService.exe
O23 - Service: Kodak Camera Connection Software (KodakCCS) - Eastman Kodak Company - C:\WINDOWS\system32\drivers\KodakCCS.exe
O23 - Service: McAfee WSC Integration (McDetect.exe) - McAfee, Inc - c:\program files\mcafee.com\agent\mcdetect.exe
O23 - Service: McAfee.com McShield (McShield) - McAfee Inc. - c:\PROGRA~1\mcafee.com\vso\mcshield.exe
O23 - Service: McAfee Task Scheduler (McTskshd.exe) - McAfee, Inc - c:\PROGRA~1\mcafee.com\agent\mctskshd.exe
O23 - Service: McAfee SecurityCenter Update Manager (mcupdmgr.exe) - McAfee, Inc - C:\PROGRA~1\McAfee.com\Agent\mcupdmgr.exe
O23 - Service: McAfee Personal Firewall Service (MpfService) - McAfee Corporation - C:\PROGRA~1\McAfee.com\PERSON~1\MPFSERVICE.exe
O23 - Service: PC Tools Spyware Doctor (SDhelper) - PC Tools Research Pty Ltd - C:\Program Files\Spyware Doctor\sdhelp.exe
O23 - Service: Webroot Spy Sweeper Engine (svcWRSSSDK) - Webroot Software, Inc. - C:\Program Files\Webroot\Spy Sweeper\WRSSSDK.exe

Previous topic:
http://forums.spybot.info/showthread.php?t=3136&page=2

[shelf life]

hi jubsickles,

dont see much in the log as far as malware goes. you might try checking for updates to the apps you have, then boot into safe mode to run them. you reach safe mode by tapping the f8 key during a computer restart. save the report ewido generates and post in next reply.

FYI: laptops have alot of customized items including drivers make sure you download drivers from the manufacturers website:you can also find good FAQ/troublshooting guides

http://support.dell.com/

shelf life

[jubsickles]

thanks for the input!

after running spy sweeper for msn yesterday, things seem to get worse, although after starting up the computer today things seemed to have gotten much better - no popups, the trackpad was responding better (still not perfect), and the computer seemed to boot up a little bit faster.

i took your advice and went to dell's support site and downloaded/installed all drivers and patches that seemed to be essential or relevant. i also restarted in safe mode, and have also run ccleaner just as another precaution.

i ran ewido yesterday and it found six or eight problems and fixed them. after running ewido again today, only one problem was found. the logfile is at the end of this post.

i'm still not sure why the trackpad is still 'acting up'. the sensitivity & response is much better, although virtual scrolling is still not working.

cheers,
justin

---------------------------------------------------------
ewido anti-malware - Scan report
---------------------------------------------------------

+ Created on: 1:12:43 PM, 5/29/2006
+ Report-Checksum: 6840FD8C

+ Scan result:

C:\System Volume Information\_restore{B37680B2-BA0A-4E5D-BF30-83E44C588624}\RP78\A0009129.ocx -> Adware.Gdown : Cleaned with backup


::Report End

[shelf life]

hi jubsickles,

ok good. you have several malware apps. really two is good enough. i would pick two to keep and uninstall the other via add/remove programs panel.

also if you see anything you dont use (commercial computers come with lots of bloatware) in the list uninstall it also. check the icons down by clock, alot of apps can be changed not to start with windows, poke around in preferences/options.

another thing you can do is use msconfig to uncheck items that load at start up
only afew items really need to be checked, one is your AV. if not sure leave it checked. see link:

http://netsquirrel.com/msconfig/
http://alri.org/step2/usingmsconfig.htm

shelf life

[jubsickles]

shelf life,

thanks for the help.:bigthumb: things are much better w/ the computer, especially after using msconfig - that really seemed to help w/ startup time.

and everything else seems to be getting much better. especially the trackpad - all seems to be nearly normal with the trackpad sensitivity and function, and virtual scrolling is (somewhat) working.

cheers,
jubsickles

[shelf life]

hi jubsickles,

good, if everything is ok i leave you with this:

Be careful of what you download, and where you download it from. Many programs come bundled with extra software.You may be installing more than you think. Visit the makers website, learn more about the program, Does the program you want come bundled with other "3rd party" programs? What do the 3rd party programs do? Will they deliver ads? Track your surfing habits?. Read the EULA agreement, you know, that paragraph of stuff you "agree to" before the software installs? If you search hard enough you can always find a "clean" alternative to any software. Stay away from warez and crack sites. Becarful what you download from file sharing networks. If you are not sure, scan it with your Antivirus app. A small file (in KB) is probably not what you think it is. DO YOU TRUST THE SOURCE? Check this database:Spyware Guide (http://www.spywareguide.com/) A Few p2p file sharing tips. (http://security-central.us/SafeHex/file%20sharing.htm)

Make sure you keep your Windows OS current by visiting Windows update (http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp)
occasionaly to download and install any critical updates and service packs. With out these you are leaving the backdoor open.

Adjust your browser settings: Change your(active x) settings in IE. With IE open go to tools, internet options, security tab. Click on the internet globe, then custom level. Set the first option "download signed active x controls" to prompt, the next two to disable. Read more:
Internet Explorer Privacy & Security Settings (https://netfiles.uiuc.edu/ehowes/www/btw/ie/ie-opts.htm)
Working with Internet Explorer 6 Security (http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/using/howto/security/settings.mspx)
Many exploits are directed at Internet Explorer, you dont have to use it. Try a different browser. You can have and use more than one browser on your computer.
Like Firefox (http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/),


Install a Firewall:A firewall will control what comes in from the internet and what leaves your computer to the internet. A firewall will also alert you when a application trys to connect to the internet from your computer, this is a good way to catch crapware or trojans, trying to connect out bound from your computer- whats that and why does it need a internet connection? You can deny it access it until more investigation is done. Zone Alarm is a free and easy to use firewall, that will provide in and outbound protection. Microsoft XP firewall only provides inbound protection. SP2 adds in and out bound protection which is better than nothing, but is not as robust as third party firewalls, Be sure to run only >one< firewall.If you use another, be sure to disable XP's built in firewall. If you use Zone Alarm learn what needs/uses your internet connection. If something unusal or out of the ordinary "asks" deny it access until more investigation is done.
Zone Alarm (http://www.zonelabs.com/store/content/catalog/products/sku_list_za.jsp?dc=12bms&ctry=US&lang=en&lid=dbtopnav_zass)
OutPost Lite (http://www.agnitum.com/products/outpostfree/download.php)

Outlook Express with the default settings is not secure. It will run scripts, download images etc, just like a browser. You dont have to use it. Windows SP1/SP2 updates have made some improvments to Outlook. Another reason to stay updated.
look here (http://www.codecutters.org/outlook/)
and here (http://www.tames.net/security/oesettings.htm)
Or try Pegasus Mail, safer by default,no tweaking needed. (http://www.pmail.com/)

Make sure you have and keep updated Antivirus software
Free for home users:
avast! 4 Home Edition Download (http://www.avast.com/eng/free_virus_protectio.html)
AVG free version 7.0 (http://free.grisoft.com/freeweb.php/doc/2/)
AntiVir Personal Edition (http://www.free-av.com/)
clam Win (http://www.Clamwin.com/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,1/)

Download one or two of these, install and update before using:(if these are constantly finding malware, then you need to make changes to your browser and or your habits)
CounterSpy (http://www.sunbelt-software.com/)Free trial version
Spybot Search and destroy (http://www.safer-networking.org/en/index.html)
Ad-Aware SE Personal edition (http://www.lavasoft.de/)
Microsoft Windows Defender (http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx)
Becarful with spyware "removers and scanners"-- there are many "rogue/suspect" (http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm) programs that "claim to remove" spyware.Check here first.

Dont be tempted to click on popup ads offering free scans or free downloads for malware removers. Read the above line again.

AntiTrojan software to fill in the gap:
a2 free (http://www.emsisoft.com/en/software/free/)
Ewido Anti-Malware (http://www.ewido.net/en/)
Trojan Hunter (30 day trial version) (http://www.misec.net/)
Tauscan trial version (http://www.agnitum.com/products/tauscan/)

Other programs to consider:
Process Guard (http://www.diamondcs.com.au/processguard/) stop events/processes with user intervention
SpywareBlaster (http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/index.php?showtutorial=49) add security to IE
IE-SPYAD (https://netfiles.uiuc.edu/ehowes/www/resource.htm#IESPYAD) adds adware peddlers sites/domains to IE restricted zone
CleanUp (http://www.stevengould.org/software/CleanUp/index.html) cleans out temp files,history, autoforms etc
ATF cleaner (W2K,XP only) (http://www.atribune.org/content/view/25/2/) cleans out temp files, history etc

Learn More:
Browser Checkup (http://www.jasons-toolbox.com/BrowserSecurity/)
Parasite Free (http://www.doxdesk.com/parasite/prevention.html)
Safe Hex (http://www.claymania.com/safe-hex.html)
Shelf Lifes page (http://security-central.us/SafeHex/index.htm)
Home Computer Security (http://www.cert.org/homeusers/HomeComputerSecurity/)

[jubsickles]

hi jubsickles,

good, if everything is ok i leave you with this:

Be careful of what you download, and where you download it from. Many programs come bundled with extra software.You may be installing more than you think. Visit the makers website, learn more about the program, Does the program you want come bundled with other "3rd party" programs? What do the 3rd party programs do? Will they deliver ads? Track your surfing habits?. Read the EULA agreement, you know, that paragraph of stuff you "agree to" before the software installs? If you search hard enough you can always find a "clean" alternative to any software. Stay away from warez and crack sites. Becarful what you download from file sharing networks. If you are not sure, scan it with your Antivirus app. A small file (in KB) is probably not what you think it is. DO YOU TRUST THE SOURCE? Check this database:Spyware Guide (http://www.spywareguide.com/) A Few p2p file sharing tips. (http://security-central.us/SafeHex/file%20sharing.htm)



yeah, i always try to be careful and never install software i'm not familiar with...




Make sure you keep your Windows OS current by visiting Windows update (http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp)
occasionaly to download and install any critical updates and service packs. With out these you are leaving the backdoor open.



windows settings are set to automatically inform of new updates, and i do occasionally check to be sure that all new updates are installed




Adjust your browser settings: Change your(active x) settings in IE. With IE open go to tools, internet options, security tab. Click on the internet globe, then custom level. Set the first option "download signed active x controls" to prompt, the next two to disable. Read more:
Internet Explorer Privacy & Security Settings (https://netfiles.uiuc.edu/ehowes/www/btw/ie/ie-opts.htm)
Working with Internet Explorer 6 Security (http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/using/howto/security/settings.mspx)
Many exploits are directed at Internet Explorer, you dont have to use it. Try a different browser. You can have and use more than one browser on your computer.
Like Firefox (http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/),



i've had firefox installed for quite awhile, although i tend to use the msn premium that is included with my dsl service by verizon. it's just convenient to use since my hotmail and msn mail account are linked/bundled in the program - it's basically just a more feature packed version of IE. although after being attacked several times in the last couple of months by spyware/malware/adware and whatever other crap, i may use firefox more often now...




Install a Firewall:A firewall will control what comes in from the internet and what leaves your computer to the internet. A firewall will also alert you when a application trys to connect to the internet from your computer, this is a good way to catch crapware or trojans, trying to connect out bound from your computer- whats that and why does it need a internet connection? You can deny it access it until more investigation is done. Zone Alarm is a free and easy to use firewall, that will provide in and outbound protection. Microsoft XP firewall only provides inbound protection. SP2 adds in and out bound protection which is better than nothing, but is not as robust as third party firewalls, Be sure to run only >one< firewall.If you use another, be sure to disable XP's built in firewall. If you use Zone Alarm learn what needs/uses your internet connection. If something unusal or out of the ordinary "asks" deny it access until more investigation is done.
Zone Alarm (http://www.zonelabs.com/store/content/catalog/products/sku_list_za.jsp?dc=12bms&ctry=US&lang=en&lid=dbtopnav_zass)
OutPost Lite (http://www.agnitum.com/products/outpostfree/download.php)



the verizon dsl account also includes mcafee security including personal firewall and virus scan. the personal firewall is always enabled...




Outlook Express with the default settings is not secure. It will run scripts, download images etc, just like a browser. You dont have to use it. Windows SP1/SP2 updates have made some improvments to Outlook. Another reason to stay updated.
look here (http://www.codecutters.org/outlook/)
and here (http://www.tames.net/security/oesettings.htm)
Or try Pegasus Mail, safer by default,no tweaking needed. (http://www.pmail.com/)


i've never really used outlook express on this computer, but all updates have been installed...




Make sure you have and keep updated Antivirus software
Free for home users:
avast! 4 Home Edition Download (http://www.avast.com/eng/free_virus_protectio.html)
AVG free version 7.0 (http://free.grisoft.com/freeweb.php/doc/2/)
AntiVir Personal Edition (http://www.free-av.com/)
clam Win (http://www.Clamwin.com/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,1/)



i use mcafee virus scan included with the verizon dsl...
do you recommend downloading & using another virus scan software program?




Download one or two of these, install and update before using:(if these are constantly finding malware, then you need to make changes to your browser and or your habits)
CounterSpy (http://www.sunbelt-software.com/)Free trial version
Spybot Search and destroy (http://www.safer-networking.org/en/index.html)
Ad-Aware SE Personal edition (http://www.lavasoft.de/)
Microsoft Windows Defender (http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx)
Becarful with spyware "removers and scanners"-- there are many "rogue/suspect" (http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm) programs that "claim to remove" spyware.Check here first.



i've used spybot s&d for quite a while now
i also have purchased the ad-aware se plus personal edition
i also use microsoft defender



Dont be tempted to click on popup ads offering free scans or free downloads for malware removers. Read the above line again.



i've never, ever done this... and never will...



AntiTrojan software to fill in the gap:
a2 free (http://www.emsisoft.com/en/software/free/)
Ewido Anti-Malware (http://www.ewido.net/en/)
Trojan Hunter (30 day trial version) (http://www.misec.net/)
Tauscan trial version (http://www.agnitum.com/products/tauscan/)



have & use ewido anti-malware...
any other suggestions/recommendations? or is one program enough?




Other programs to consider:
Process Guard (http://www.diamondcs.com.au/processguard/) stop events/processes with user intervention
SpywareBlaster (http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/index.php?showtutorial=49) add security to IE
IE-SPYAD (https://netfiles.uiuc.edu/ehowes/www/resource.htm#IESPYAD) adds adware peddlers sites/domains to IE restricted zone
CleanUp (http://www.stevengould.org/software/CleanUp/index.html) cleans out temp files,history, autoforms etc
ATF cleaner (W2K,XP only) (http://www.atribune.org/content/view/25/2/) cleans out temp files, history etc



i had spywareblaster for a long time, though recently deleted it as it didn't really seem to be doing much. perhaps i'll reinstall it...
any other suggestions/recommendations here?



Learn More:
Browser Checkup (http://www.jasons-toolbox.com/BrowserSecurity/)
Parasite Free (http://www.doxdesk.com/parasite/prevention.html)
Safe Hex (http://www.claymania.com/safe-hex.html)
Shelf Lifes page (http://security-central.us/SafeHex/index.htm)
Home Computer Security (http://www.cert.org/homeusers/HomeComputerSecurity/)

thanks again for the help and input... the computer seems even better now. the trackpad is functioning near normal, and am able to scroll (somewhat) using the trackpad.

going to be much more careful from now on, may use firefox much more often, and the next laptop is going to be a mac:laugh: really, really sick of restarting every time any change is made...

[shelf life]

hi jubsickles,

glad to help. wow not only did you read my "speech" you commented on it! thats a first.

iam working on making it shorter, i think most people look at it and say "ugh, forget it"

it looks like your doing all the right things.
to your questions:


do you recommend downloading & using another virus scan software program?
no mcafee is good.


have & use ewido anti-malware...
any other suggestions/recommendations? or is one program enough?
ewido is enough


i had spywareblaster for a long time, though recently deleted it as it didn't really seem to be doing much. perhaps i'll reinstall it...
any other suggestions/recommendations here?

i think ATF cleaner is a good app to use:
ATF cleaner (W2K,XP only) (http://www.atribune.org/content/view/25/2/) cleans out temp files, history etc

happy safe surfing out there.......
shelf life

[tashi]

As the problem appears to be resolved this topic will be archived. :bigthumb:

If you need it re-opened jubsickles please send me a pm and provide a link to the thread.

Glad we could help.