The PopUps Never End!

D

Dharmabm42

New member
First off, thank you SpyBot. You and Ad-Aware have been life savers in the past.

Symptoms: Multiple instances of IExplore.exe, Aggressive PopUps of at least three varieties: url feeds, something called ppoe, and small eBay windows.

I have been wrestling with this for a week now. It seems like I have encountered and destroyed every malware known to man, and yet the symptoms still continue.

Help!

In safe mode, SpyBot found Command Service and was able to get rid of one of the files, but not things under /ControlSet001. I want to get rid of Command Service, of course, but I'm not sure that's the sole perpetrator.

Here is my HJ log.

Logfile of HijackThis v1.99.1
Scan saved at 6:26:48 PM, on 4/18/2007
Platform: Windows XP SP1 (WinNT 5.01.2600)
MSIE: Internet Explorer v6.00 SP1 (6.00.2800.1106)

Running processes:
C:\WINDOWS\System32\smss.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:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Real\Update_OB\realsched.exe
C:\Program Files\HP\HP Software Update\HPWuSchd2.exe
C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\jusched.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\{24B8F138-07D9-1033-0818-041124040001}\Update.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\ctfmon.exe
C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Distillr\acrotray.exe
c:\progra~1\intern~1\iexplore.exe
C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\iexplore.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\nvsvc32.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Desktop\hijackthis\HijackThis.exe

O2 - BHO: AcroIEHlprObj Class - {06849E9F-C8D7-4D59-B87D-784B7D6BE0B3} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Acrobat\ActiveX\AcroIEHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: (no name) - {53707962-6F74-2D53-2644-206D7942484F} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYBOT~1\SDHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: SSVHelper Class - {761497BB-D6F0-462C-B6EB-D4DAF1D92D43} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\ssv.dll
O2 - BHO: (no name) - {A09B265D-8F67-46D6-869F-E8599A18C151} - C:\Program Files\WindowsUpdate\save.dll
O2 - BHO: 0 - {AD0B2D38-64C1-4181-9ABE-E0AEC18FF8AD} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\wohuxa.dll
O2 - BHO: AcroIEToolbarHelper Class - {AE7CD045-E861-484f-8273-0445EE161910} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Acrobat\AcroIEFavClient.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Adobe PDF - {47833539-D0C5-4125-9FA8-0819E2EAAC93} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Acrobat\AcroIEFavClient.dll
O3 - Toolbar: &Radio - {8E718888-423F-11D2-876E-00A0C9082467} - C:\WINDOWS\System32\msdxm.ocx
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvCplDaemon] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\System32\NvCpl.dll,NvStartup
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [nwiz] nwiz.exe /install
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvMixerTray] C:\Program Files\NVIDIA Corporation\NvMixer\NvMixerTray.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SoundMan] SOUNDMAN.EXE
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [TkBellExe] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Real\Update_OB\realsched.exe" -osboot
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IMJPMIG8.1] "C:\WINDOWS\IME\imjp8_1\IMJPMIG.EXE" /Spoil /RemAdvDef /Migration32
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [MSPY2002] C:\WINDOWS\System32\IME\PINTLGNT\ImScInst.exe /SYNC
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PHIME2002ASync] C:\WINDOWS\System32\IME\TINTLGNT\TINTSETP.EXE /SYNC
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PHIME2002A] C:\WINDOWS\System32\IME\TINTLGNT\TINTSETP.EXE /IMEName
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NeroFilterCheck] C:\WINDOWS\system32\NeroCheck.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvMediaCenter] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\System32\NvMcTray.dll,NvTaskbarInit
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [QuickTime Task] "C:\Program Files\QuickTime\qttask.exe" -atboottime
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [HP Software Update] C:\Program Files\HP\HP Software Update\HPWuSchd2.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PDFpas] C:\LingLink\PDFpas.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Zone Labs Client] "C:\Program Files\Zone Labs\ZoneAlarm\zlclient.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SunJavaUpdateSched] "C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\jusched.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [ZoneAlarm Client] "C:\Program Files\Zone Labs\ZoneAlarm\zlclient.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [{ZN}] C:\WINDOWS\system32\micro1\z6.exe SKY003
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [ctfmon.exe] C:\WINDOWS\System32\ctfmon.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [keyman.exe] C:\Program Files\Tavultesoft\Keyman\keyman.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Amok pure] C:\DOCUME~1\Sean\APPLIC~1\LOUDFR~1\Dart Atom Date.exe
O4 - Startup: TA_Start.lnk = C:\WINDOWS\system32\micro1\z6.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Acrobat Assistant.lnk = C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Distillr\acrotray.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Adobe Reader Speed Launch.lnk = C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\Reader\reader_sl.exe
O4 - Global Startup: HP Digital Imaging Monitor.lnk = C:\Program Files\HP\Digital Imaging\bin\hpqtra08.exe
O8 - Extra context menu item: E&xport to Microsoft Excel - res://C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~2\OFFICE11\EXCEL.EXE/3000
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\ssv.dll
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Sun Java Console - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\ssv.dll
O9 - Extra button: Research - {92780B25-18CC-41C8-B9BE-3C9C571A8263} - C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~2\OFFICE11\REFIEBAR.DLL
O9 - Extra button: Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\MSMSGS.EXE
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Windows Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\MSMSGS.EXE
O16 - DPF: {6414512B-B978-451D-A0D8-FCFDF33E833C} (WUWebControl Class) - http://update.microsoft.com/windowsupdate/v6/V5Controls/en/x86/client/wuweb_site.cab?1120626899539
O16 - DPF: {9A9307A0-7DA4-4DAF-B042-5009F29E09E1} (ActiveScan Installer Class) - http://acs.pandasoftware.com/activescan/as5free/asinst.cab
O23 - Service: Client IP-IPX - Unknown owner - ".exe (file missing)
O23 - Service: Command Service (cmdService) - Unknown owner - C:\WINDOWS\U2VhbiBQYXRyaWNrIE1pY2hhZWwgQ29jaHJhbmU\command.exe (file missing)
O23 - Service: Google Updater Service (gusvc) - Google - C:\Program Files\Google\Common\Google Updater\GoogleUpdaterService.exe
O23 - Service: InstallDriver Table Manager (IDriverT) - Macrovision Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\InstallShield\Driver\1050\Intel 32\IDriverT.exe
O23 - Service: NVIDIA Display Driver Service (NVSvc) - NVIDIA Corporation - C:\WINDOWS\System32\nvsvc32.exe
O23 - Service: TrueVector Internet Monitor (vsmon) - Zone Labs, LLC - C:\WINDOWS\system32\ZoneLabs\vsmon.exe

I know I need to switch to SP2, but it gave me such problems in the past, and I think I read somewhere that I need to get rid of the malware before updating.

Thanks!

Dharma
 
Please Download NoLophttp://www.spywareedge.net/nolop/NoLop.exe to your desktop
  • First close any other programs you have running as this will require
    a reboot
  • Double click NoLop.exe to run it
  • Now click the button labelled
    Search and
    Destroy

    <<your computer will now be scanned for infected files>>
  • When scanning is finished you will be prompted to reboot only if
    infected, Click OK
  • Now click the
    REBOOT Button.
  • A Message should popup from NoLop. If not, double click the
    program again and it will finish Please Post the contents of
    C:\NoLop.log along with a fresh HijackThis log
--If you receive an error, mscomctl.ocx or one of its dependencies are not correctly registered, please download
mscomctl.ocx to your system32 folder then rerun the program.--
 
Hi Blade81.

Thanks for taking the time to help. I really appreciate it.

Here is the NoLop log.

NoLop! Log by Skate_Punk_21

Fix running from: C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Desktop
[4/19/2007]
[4:34:45 PM]

---Infection Files Found/Removed---
C:\WINDOWS\tasks\9327BEF1B3B8397D.job

Beginning Removal...
Rebooting...
Removing Lop's Leftover Files/Folders...
Editing Registry...
**Fix Complete!**

---Listing AppData sub directories---

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Adobe
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Apple Computer
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Avg7
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Cyberlink
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Dvd Shrink
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Grisoft
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Hp
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Nview_profiles -- EMPTY Directory
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Platformjumpballbias
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Quicktime
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Skype -- EMPTY Directory
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Spybot - Search & Destroy
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Tavultesoft
C:\Documents and Settings\Default User\Application Data\Microsoft
C:\Documents and Settings\Localservice\Application Data\Avg7 -- EMPTY Directory
C:\Documents and Settings\Localservice\Application Data\Microsoft
C:\Documents and Settings\Localservice\Application Data\Mozilla
C:\Documents and Settings\Localservice\Application Data\Netmon
C:\Documents and Settings\Localservice\Application Data\Talkback
C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Identities
C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Macromedia
C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Microsoft
C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla
C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Real
C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Securom
C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Talkback
C:\Documents and Settings\Networkservice\Application Data\Microsoft
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\.bittorrent
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Adobe
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Adobeum -- EMPTY Directory
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Ahead
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Apple Computer
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Avg7
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Azureus
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Google
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Help -- EMPTY Directory
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Housecall 6.6
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Hp
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Identities
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Lavasoft
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Loudfreelove
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Macromedia
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Microsoft
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Mozilla
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Pdfcreator
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Real
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Securom
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Skype
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Sun
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Talkback
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Teamspeak2
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Thunderbird
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Ventrilo
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Yoclient

And here is the fresh HJ.

Logfile of HijackThis v1.99.1
Scan saved at 4:40:10 PM, on 4/19/2007
Platform: Windows XP SP1 (WinNT 5.01.2600)
MSIE: Internet Explorer v6.00 SP1 (6.00.2800.1106)

Running processes:
C:\WINDOWS\System32\smss.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:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Real\Update_OB\realsched.exe
C:\Program Files\HP\HP Software Update\HPWuSchd2.exe
C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\jusched.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\ctfmon.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgamsvr.exe
C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Distillr\acrotray.exe
C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\Reader\reader_sl.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgupsvc.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgemc.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\nvsvc32.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\wuauclt.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Desktop\hijackthis\HijackThis.exe

R0 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page =
O2 - BHO: AcroIEHlprObj Class - {06849E9F-C8D7-4D59-B87D-784B7D6BE0B3} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Acrobat\ActiveX\AcroIEHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: (no name) - {53707962-6F74-2D53-2644-206D7942484F} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYBOT~1\SDHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: SSVHelper Class - {761497BB-D6F0-462C-B6EB-D4DAF1D92D43} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\ssv.dll
O2 - BHO: (no name) - {A09B265D-8F67-46D6-869F-E8599A18C151} - C:\Program Files\WindowsUpdate\save.dll
O2 - BHO: 0 - {AD0B2D38-64C1-4181-9ABE-E0AEC18FF8AD} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\wohuxa.dll
O2 - BHO: AcroIEToolbarHelper Class - {AE7CD045-E861-484f-8273-0445EE161910} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Acrobat\AcroIEFavClient.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Adobe PDF - {47833539-D0C5-4125-9FA8-0819E2EAAC93} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Acrobat\AcroIEFavClient.dll
O3 - Toolbar: &Radio - {8E718888-423F-11D2-876E-00A0C9082467} - C:\WINDOWS\System32\msdxm.ocx
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvCplDaemon] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\System32\NvCpl.dll,NvStartup
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [nwiz] nwiz.exe /install
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvMixerTray] C:\Program Files\NVIDIA Corporation\NvMixer\NvMixerTray.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SoundMan] SOUNDMAN.EXE
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [TkBellExe] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Real\Update_OB\realsched.exe" -osboot
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IMJPMIG8.1] "C:\WINDOWS\IME\imjp8_1\IMJPMIG.EXE" /Spoil /RemAdvDef /Migration32
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [MSPY2002] C:\WINDOWS\System32\IME\PINTLGNT\ImScInst.exe /SYNC
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PHIME2002ASync] C:\WINDOWS\System32\IME\TINTLGNT\TINTSETP.EXE /SYNC
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PHIME2002A] C:\WINDOWS\System32\IME\TINTLGNT\TINTSETP.EXE /IMEName
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NeroFilterCheck] C:\WINDOWS\system32\NeroCheck.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvMediaCenter] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\System32\NvMcTray.dll,NvTaskbarInit
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [QuickTime Task] "C:\Program Files\QuickTime\qttask.exe" -atboottime
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [HP Software Update] C:\Program Files\HP\HP Software Update\HPWuSchd2.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PDFpas] C:\LingLink\PDFpas.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Zone Labs Client] "C:\Program Files\Zone Labs\ZoneAlarm\zlclient.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SunJavaUpdateSched] "C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\jusched.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [ZoneAlarm Client] "C:\Program Files\Zone Labs\ZoneAlarm\zlclient.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [{ZN}] C:\WINDOWS\system32\micro1\z6.exe SKY003
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [AVG7_CC] C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgcc.exe /STARTUP
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [ctfmon.exe] C:\WINDOWS\System32\ctfmon.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [keyman.exe] C:\Program Files\Tavultesoft\Keyman\keyman.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Amok pure] C:\DOCUME~1\Sean\APPLIC~1\LOUDFR~1\Dart Atom Date.exe
O4 - Startup: TA_Start.lnk = C:\WINDOWS\system32\micro1\z6.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Acrobat Assistant.lnk = C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Distillr\acrotray.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Adobe Reader Speed Launch.lnk = C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\Reader\reader_sl.exe
O4 - Global Startup: HP Digital Imaging Monitor.lnk = C:\Program Files\HP\Digital Imaging\bin\hpqtra08.exe
O8 - Extra context menu item: E&xport to Microsoft Excel - res://C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~2\OFFICE11\EXCEL.EXE/3000
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\ssv.dll
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Sun Java Console - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\ssv.dll
O9 - Extra button: Research - {92780B25-18CC-41C8-B9BE-3C9C571A8263} - C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~2\OFFICE11\REFIEBAR.DLL
O9 - Extra button: Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\MSMSGS.EXE
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Windows Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\MSMSGS.EXE
O16 - DPF: {6414512B-B978-451D-A0D8-FCFDF33E833C} (WUWebControl Class) - http://update.microsoft.com/windowsupdate/v6/V5Controls/en/x86/client/wuweb_site.cab?1120626899539
O16 - DPF: {9A9307A0-7DA4-4DAF-B042-5009F29E09E1} (ActiveScan Installer Class) - http://acs.pandasoftware.com/activescan/as5free/asinst.cab
O23 - Service: AVG7 Alert Manager Server (Avg7Alrt) - GRISOFT, s.r.o. - C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgamsvr.exe
O23 - Service: AVG7 Update Service (Avg7UpdSvc) - GRISOFT, s.r.o. - C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgupsvc.exe
O23 - Service: AVG E-mail Scanner (AVGEMS) - GRISOFT, s.r.o. - C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgemc.exe
O23 - Service: Client IP-IPX - Unknown owner - ".exe (file missing)
O23 - Service: Command Service (cmdService) - Unknown owner - C:\WINDOWS\U2VhbiBQYXRyaWNrIE1pY2hhZWwgQ29jaHJhbmU\command.exe (file missing)
O23 - Service: Google Updater Service (gusvc) - Google - C:\Program Files\Google\Common\Google Updater\GoogleUpdaterService.exe
O23 - Service: InstallDriver Table Manager (IDriverT) - Macrovision Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\InstallShield\Driver\1050\Intel 32\IDriverT.exe
O23 - Service: NVIDIA Display Driver Service (NVSvc) - NVIDIA Corporation - C:\WINDOWS\System32\nvsvc32.exe
O23 - Service: TrueVector Internet Monitor (vsmon) - Zone Labs, LLC - C:\WINDOWS\system32\ZoneLabs\vsmon.exe

Symptoms still persist.

Thanks again!

-Dharma
 
Hi Dharma

Let's continue our cleaning mission :)

Start hjt, click do a system scan only, check:
O2 - BHO: (no name) - {A09B265D-8F67-46D6-869F-E8599A18C151} - C:\Program Files\WindowsUpdate\save.dll
O2 - BHO: 0 - {AD0B2D38-64C1-4181-9ABE-E0AEC18FF8AD} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\wohuxa.dll
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [{ZN}] C:\WINDOWS\system32\micro1\z6.exe SKY003
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Amok pure] C:\DOCUME~1\Sean\APPLIC~1\LOUDFR~1\Dart Atom Date.exe
O4 - Startup: TA_Start.lnk = C:\WINDOWS\system32\micro1\z6.exe
O23 - Service: Client IP-IPX - Unknown owner - ".exe (file missing)
O23 - Service: Command Service (cmdService) - Unknown owner - C:\WINDOWS\U2VhbiBQYXRyaWNrIE1pY2hhZWwgQ29jaHJhbmU\command.exe (file missing)

Close all browsers & other windows. Click fix checked.

Downloading needed applications
-------------------------------

Please download AVG Anti-Spyware to your Desktop or to your usual Download Folder.
http://www.ewido.net/en/download/
  • Install AVG Anti-Spyware by double clicking the installer.
  • Follow the prompts. Make sure that Launch AVG Anti-Spyware is checked.
  • On the main screen under Your Computer's security.
    • Click on Change state next to Resident shield. It should now change to inactive.
    • Click on Change state next to Automatic updates. It should now change to inactive.
    • Next to Last Update, click on Update now. (You will need an active internet connection to perform this)
    • Wait until you see the Update succesfull message.
  • Right-click the AVG Anti-Spyware Tray Icon and uncheck Start with Windows.
  • Right-click the AVG Anti-Spyware Tray Icon and select Exit. Confirm by clicking Yes.
If you are having problems with the updater, you can use this link to manually update ewido.
AVG Anti-Spyware manual updates.
Download the Full database to your Desktop or to your usual Download Folder and install it by double clicking the file. Make sure that AVG Anti-Spyware is closed before installing the update. Don't run AVG yet. Will do it a bit later.


Download ATF (Atribune Temp File) Cleaner© by Atribune to your desktop. Don't run ATF yet. Will do it a bit later.



I recommend you to print/save these instructions since these are quite long and you can't access them while in safe mode.


Creating & executing batch file
-------------------------------

Open notepad and then copy and paste the bolded lines below into it. Go to File > save as and name the file fixes.bat, change the Save as type to all files and save it to your desktop. (If you are still unsure on how to do this there is a little tutorial with pictures here)
@echo off
sc stop "Client IP-IPX"
sc delete "Client IP-IPX"
sc stop cmdService
sc delete cmdService

Double-click on fixes.bat file to execute it.



==============================

Reboot into safe mode (press F8 before Windows' loading screen and select safe mode)

Show hidden files
-----------------
* Click Start.
* Open My Computer.
* Select the Tools menu and click Folder Options.
* Select the View Tab.
* Under the Hidden files and folders heading select Show hidden files and folders.
* Uncheck the Hide protected operating system files (recommended) option.
* Click Yes to confirm.
* Click OK.

Deleting files & folders
------------------------

Delete following files and folders (if found):
C:\Program Files\WindowsUpdate\save.dll
C:\Program Files\Messenger\wohuxa.dll
C:\Program Files\Common Files\{24B8F138-07D9-1033-0818-041124040001}
C:\WINDOWS\system32\micro1
C:\Documents And Settings\Sean\Application Data\Loudfreelove
C:\WINDOWS\U2VhbiBQYXRyaWNrIE1pY2hhZWwgQ29jaHJhbmU



Running temp cleaner & AVG Anti-Spyware
---------------------------------------



Double-click ATF Cleaner.exe to open it

Under Main choose:
Windows Temp
Current User Temp
All Users Temp
Cookies
Temporary Internet Files
Prefetch
Java Cache
*The other boxes are optional*
Then click the Empty Selected button.

Firefox:
Click Firefox at the top and choose: Select All
Click the Empty Selected button.
NOTE: If you would like to keep your saved passwords, please click NO at the prompt.

Opera:
Click Opera at the top and choose: Select All
Click the Empty Selected button.
NOTE: If you would like to keep your saved passwords, please click NO at the prompt.

Click Exit on the Main menu to close the program.



Close ALL open Windows / Programs / Folders. Please start AVG Anti-Spyware and run a full scan.
  • Click on Scanner on the toolbar.
  • Click on the Settings tab.
    • Under How to act?
      • Click on Recommended Action and choose Quarantine from the popup menu.
    • Under How to scan?
      • All checkboxes should be ticked.
    • Under Possibly unwanted software:
      • All checkboxes should be ticked.
    • Under Reports:
      • Select Automatically generate report after every scan and uncheck Only if threats were found.
    • Under What to scan?
      • Select Scan every file.
  • Click on the Scan tab.
  • Click on Complete System Scan to start the scan process.
  • Let the program scan the machine.
  • When the scan has finished, follow the instructions below.
    IMPORTANT : Don't click on the
    Save Scan Report
    button before you did hit the
    Apply all Actions
    button.
    • Make sure that Set all elements to: shows Quarantine (1), if not click on the link and choose Quarantine from the popup menu. (2)
    • At the bottom of the window click on the Apply all Actions button. (3)
      scanavgjk2.jpg
  • When done, click the Save Scan Report button. (4)
    • Click the Save Report as button.
    • Save the report to your Desktop.
  • Right-click the AVG Anti-Spyware Tray Icon and select Exit. Confirm by clicking Yes.
Reboot in Normal Mode.


Post AVG Anti-Spyware log & a fresh HJT log.
 
Hi again.

That took a long time, but AVG found some 44 instances. Here's the AVG log:

---------------------------------------------------------
AVG Anti-Spyware - Scan Report
---------------------------------------------------------

+ Created at: 11:36:29 AM 4/20/2007

+ Scan result:



C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Local Settings\Temp\temp.fr8C1F\v1.6.8\webbuying.exe -> Adware.Agent : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP612\A0096267.dll -> Adware.Lucky : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-507921405-1645522239-1801674531-1003\Dc5\z1.exe -> Adware.NewDotNet : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096038.exe -> Adware.Softomate : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096070.exe -> Adware.Softomate : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-507921405-1645522239-1801674531-1003\Dc5\z4.exe -> Adware.SurfSide : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0095989.exe -> Adware.SurfSide : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\Program Files\Common Files\fwkr\fwkrd\fwkrc.dll -> Adware.TargetServer : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Desktop\hijackthis\backups\backup-20070420-101803-117.dll -> Adware.TTC : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-507921405-1645522239-1801674531-1003\Dc1.dll -> Adware.TTC : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP612\snapshot\MFEX-1.DAT -> Adware.TTC : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Desktop\hijackthis\backups\backup-20070420-101803-720.dll -> Adware.ZQuest : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096071.exe -> Adware.ZQuest : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP612\A0096247.dll -> Adware.ZQuest : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096047.exe -> Backdoor.Rbot : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0095952.exe -> Downloader.Agent.bca : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096068.exe -> Downloader.TSUpdate.f : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\Program Files\Common Files\fwkr\fwkrd\vocabulary -> Downloader.TSUpdate.j : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096066.exe -> Downloader.TSUpdate.l : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096067.exe -> Downloader.TSUpdate.r : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-507921405-1645522239-1801674531-1003\Dc5\zin5.exe -> Dropper.Agent.bfr : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\WINDOWS\system32\drivers\core.sys -> Rootkit.Agent.eq : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
:mozilla.58:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.2o7 : Cleaned.
:mozilla.59:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.2o7 : Cleaned.
:mozilla.60:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.2o7 : Cleaned.
:mozilla.12:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Com : Cleaned.
:mozilla.11:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Doubleclick : Cleaned.
:mozilla.6:C:\Documents and Settings\LocalService\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\wyvw8a5f.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Findwhat : Cleaned.
:mozilla.27:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Mediaplex : Cleaned.
:mozilla.16:C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Application Data\Thunderbird\Profiles\9vitixep.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Paypal : Cleaned.
:mozilla.17:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Revsci : Cleaned.
:mozilla.8:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Revsci : Cleaned.
:mozilla.34:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Yieldmanager : Cleaned.
:mozilla.35:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Yieldmanager : Cleaned.
:mozilla.36:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Yieldmanager : Cleaned.
:mozilla.47:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Zedo : Cleaned.
:mozilla.48:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Zedo : Cleaned.
:mozilla.49:C:\Documents and Settings\Matt\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\9hgntbsh.default\cookies.txt -> TrackingCookie.Zedo : Cleaned.
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-507921405-1645522239-1801674531-1003\Dc5\b9.exe -> Trojan.Bantool : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096030.exe -> Trojan.Obfuscated.en : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096032.exe -> Trojan.Obfuscated.en : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\RECYCLER\S-1-5-21-507921405-1645522239-1801674531-1003\Dc7\oZp1v21ksrlVuqhOKHYDsZ11tqT0kZ63uJL1vAo.vbs -> Trojan.Small : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0095949.vbs -> Trojan.Small : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\WINDOWS\system32\wnscpsv.exe -> Trojan.Small : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0095951.exe -> Trojan.Small.mf : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).
C:\System Volume Information\_restore{6B11D502-6825-425C-BE9A-73A545724ED6}\RP611\A0096069.exe -> Worm.VB.dw : Cleaned with backup (quarantined).


::Report end

And here's the HJ log.

Logfile of HijackThis v1.99.1
Scan saved at 11:40:53 AM, on 4/20/2007
Platform: Windows XP SP1 (WinNT 5.01.2600)
MSIE: Internet Explorer v6.00 SP1 (6.00.2800.1106)

Running processes:
C:\WINDOWS\System32\smss.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:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\Program Files\Grisoft\AVG Anti-Spyware 7.5\guard.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgamsvr.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Real\Update_OB\realsched.exe
C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\jusched.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgupsvc.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\ctfmon.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgemc.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\nvsvc32.exe
C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Distillr\acrotray.exe
C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\Reader\reader_sl.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\wuauclt.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\Sean\Desktop\hijackthis\HijackThis.exe

R0 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page =
O2 - BHO: AcroIEHlprObj Class - {06849E9F-C8D7-4D59-B87D-784B7D6BE0B3} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Acrobat\ActiveX\AcroIEHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: (no name) - {53707962-6F74-2D53-2644-206D7942484F} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYBOT~1\SDHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: SSVHelper Class - {761497BB-D6F0-462C-B6EB-D4DAF1D92D43} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\ssv.dll
O2 - BHO: AcroIEToolbarHelper Class - {AE7CD045-E861-484f-8273-0445EE161910} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Acrobat\AcroIEFavClient.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Adobe PDF - {47833539-D0C5-4125-9FA8-0819E2EAAC93} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Acrobat\AcroIEFavClient.dll
O3 - Toolbar: &Radio - {8E718888-423F-11D2-876E-00A0C9082467} - C:\WINDOWS\System32\msdxm.ocx
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvCplDaemon] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\System32\NvCpl.dll,NvStartup
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [nwiz] nwiz.exe /install
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvMixerTray] C:\Program Files\NVIDIA Corporation\NvMixer\NvMixerTray.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SoundMan] SOUNDMAN.EXE
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [TkBellExe] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Real\Update_OB\realsched.exe" -osboot
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IMJPMIG8.1] "C:\WINDOWS\IME\imjp8_1\IMJPMIG.EXE" /Spoil /RemAdvDef /Migration32
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [MSPY2002] C:\WINDOWS\System32\IME\PINTLGNT\ImScInst.exe /SYNC
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PHIME2002ASync] C:\WINDOWS\System32\IME\TINTLGNT\TINTSETP.EXE /SYNC
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PHIME2002A] C:\WINDOWS\System32\IME\TINTLGNT\TINTSETP.EXE /IMEName
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NeroFilterCheck] C:\WINDOWS\system32\NeroCheck.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvMediaCenter] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\System32\NvMcTray.dll,NvTaskbarInit
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [QuickTime Task] "C:\Program Files\QuickTime\qttask.exe" -atboottime
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PDFpas] C:\LingLink\PDFpas.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Zone Labs Client] "C:\Program Files\Zone Labs\ZoneAlarm\zlclient.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SunJavaUpdateSched] "C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_11\bin\jusched.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [ZoneAlarm Client] "C:\Program Files\Zone Labs\ZoneAlarm\zlclient.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [AVG7_CC] C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgcc.exe /STARTUP
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [MSConfig] C:\WINDOWS\PCHealth\HelpCtr\Binaries\MSConfig.exe /auto
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [ctfmon.exe] C:\WINDOWS\System32\ctfmon.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [keyman.exe] C:\Program Files\Tavultesoft\Keyman\keyman.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Acrobat Assistant.lnk = C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Distillr\acrotray.exe
O4 - Global Startup: Adobe Reader Speed Launch.lnk = C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\Reader\reader_sl.exe
O4 - Global Startup: HP Digital Imaging Monitor.lnk = C:\Program Files\HP\Digital Imaging\bin\hpqtra08.exe
O8 - Extra context menu item: E&xport to Microsoft Excel - res://C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~2\OFFICE11\EXCEL.EXE/3000
O16 - DPF: {6414512B-B978-451D-A0D8-FCFDF33E833C} (WUWebControl Class) - http://update.microsoft.com/windowsupdate/v6/V5Controls/en/x86/client/wuweb_site.cab?1120626899539
O23 - Service: AVG Anti-Spyware Guard - Anti-Malware Development a.s. - C:\Program Files\Grisoft\AVG Anti-Spyware 7.5\guard.exe
O23 - Service: AVG7 Alert Manager Server (Avg7Alrt) - GRISOFT, s.r.o. - C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgamsvr.exe
O23 - Service: AVG7 Update Service (Avg7UpdSvc) - GRISOFT, s.r.o. - C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgupsvc.exe
O23 - Service: AVG E-mail Scanner (AVGEMS) - GRISOFT, s.r.o. - C:\PROGRA~1\Grisoft\AVG7\avgemc.exe
O23 - Service: Google Updater Service (gusvc) - Google - C:\Program Files\Google\Common\Google Updater\GoogleUpdaterService.exe
O23 - Service: InstallDriver Table Manager (IDriverT) - Macrovision Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\InstallShield\Driver\1050\Intel 32\IDriverT.exe
O23 - Service: NVIDIA Display Driver Service (NVSvc) - NVIDIA Corporation - C:\WINDOWS\System32\nvsvc32.exe
O23 - Service: TrueVector Internet Monitor (vsmon) - Zone Labs, LLC - C:\WINDOWS\system32\ZoneLabs\vsmon.exe

So, how's she doing, doc? I'll be back on Sunday.

Thanks again for all the help!

- Dharma.
 
So, how's she doing, doc?
Click to expand...
According to logs she's doing fine :bigthumb:


Well congrats, it appears your system is all clean Are you still noticing any problems? If not, it's time to secure your system to prevent against further intrusions.


THESE STEPS ARE VERY IMPORTANT

Let's reset system restore
Reset and Re-enable your System Restore to remove infected files that have been backed up by Windows. The files in System Restore are protected to prevent any programs changing those files. This is the only way to clean these files: You will lose all previous restore points which are likely to be infected. Please note you need Administrator Access to do clean the restore points.

1. Turn off System Restore.
On the Desktop, right-click My Computer.
Click Properties.
Click the System Restore tab.
Check Turn off System Restore.
Click Apply, and then click OK.

2. Reboot.

3. Turn ON System Restore.
On the Desktop, right-click My Computer.
Click Properties.
Click the System Restore tab.
UN-Check *Turn off System Restore*.
Click Apply, and then click OK.
NOTE: only do this ONCE,NOT on a regular basis



We need to re hide system files. To do so, please follow the steps below:
  1. Double-click My Computer.
  2. Click the Tools menu, and then click Folder Options.
  3. Click the View tab.
  4. Put a check by
    Hide file extensions for known file types.
  5. Under the
    Hidden files
    folder, select
    Show hidden files and folders.
  6. Check
    Hide protected operating system files.
  7. Click Apply, and then click OK.

Your Java is out of date. Older versions have vulnerabilities that malware can use to infect your system. Please follow these steps to remove older version Java components and update to the latest version...

Updating Java:
  • Download the latest version of Java Runtime Environment (JRE) 6u1.
  • Scroll down to where it says
    The J2SE Runtime Environment (JRE) allows end-users to run Java applications.
  • Click the
    Download
    button to the right.
  • Check the box that says:
    Accept License Agreement.
  • The page will refresh.
  • Click on the link to download Windows Offline Installation with or without Multi-language and save to your desktop.
  • Close any programs you may have running - especially your web browser.
  • Go to Start > Control Panel double-click on Add/Remove programs and remove all older versions of Java.
  • Check any item with Java Runtime Environment (JRE or J2SE) in the name.
  • Click the Remove or Change/Remove button.
  • Repeat as many times as necessary to remove each Java versions.
  • Reboot your computer once all Java components are removed.
  • Then from your desktop double-click on jre-6u1-windows-i586-p.exe to install the newest version.


UPDATING WINDOWS AND INTERNET EXPLORER

IMPORTANT: You Need to Update Windows and Internet Explorer to protect your computer from the malware that is around on the Internet. Please go to the windows update site to get the critical updates.

If you are running Microsoft Office, or any portion thereof, go to the Microsoft's Office Update site and make sure you have at least all the critical updates installed (Free) Microsoft Office Update.

If the service pack 2 download is too large, you can order a copy on cd from microsoft here

Make your Internet Explorer more secure

This can be done by following these simple instructions:
From within Internet Explorer click on the Tools menu and then click on Options.
Click once on the Security tab
Click once on the Internet icon so it becomes highlighted.
Click once on the Custom Level button.
Change the Download signed ActiveX controls to Prompt
Change the Download unsigned ActiveX controls to Disable
Change the Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe to Disable
Change the Installation of desktop items to Prompt
Change the Launching programs and files in an IFRAME to Prompt
Change the Navigate sub-frames across different domains to Prompt
Change the allow paste operations via script to Disable
When all these settings have been made, click on the OK button.
If it prompts you as to whether or not you want to save the settings, press the Yes button.
Next press the Apply button and then the OK to exit the Internet Properties page.



The following are recommended third party programs that are designed to keep your computer clean. A link as well as a brief description is included with each item.

  • Download Adaware
    Adaware is a free program. It scans for known spyware on your computer. These scans should be run at least once every two weeks. For more information, see this tutorial
    The program is available for download here
  • Download Spybot
    Spybot is a scanner like adaware. It scans for spyware and other malicious programs. It is important to have both Adaware and Spybot on your computer because each program provides unique detection and pretection measures. Spybot has preventitive tools that stop programs from even installing on your computer.
    To see how to set this up as well as more spybot features, see here
    Spybot can be downloaded at this location
  • Download SpywareBlaster
    Spyware blaster is a program that stops known malicious activex controls from installing on your computer. It works by changing settings in your registry. It makes
    kill bits
    in the registry, so that certain activex controls can't install.
    If you don't know what activex controls are, see here
    You can download SpywareBlaster here here
    SpywareBlaster tutorial
  • Download iespyad
    It puts many bad webpages on your restricted zones list. This means that you can still view the
    bad
    webpages, but the webpages cannot do certain things (such as use javascripts and cookies).
    If you need help understanding how it works, there is a tutorial here
    Download it here
  • hosts file:
    • Every version of windows has a hosts file as part of them.
    • In a very basic sense, they are used to locate webpages.
    • We can customize a hosts file so that it blocks certain webpages.
    • However, it can slow down certain computers.
    • This is why using a hosts file is optional!!
    Download it here. Make sure you read the instructions on how to install the hosts file. There is a good tutorial here
    If you decide to download the hosts file, the slowdown problems can usually be avoided by following these steps:
    1. [*]Click the start button (at the lower left hand corner of your screen) [*]Click run [*]In the dialog box, type services.msc [*]hit enter, then locate dns client [*]Highlight it, then double-click it. [*]On the dropdown box, change the setting from automatic to manual. [*]Click ok


  • Keep Anti Virus Software updated - Most AVs will update automatically, but if not I would recommend making updating the AV the first job every time the PC is connected to the internet. An AV that is using defs that are seven days old is not going to be much protection. If you do not update your anti virus software then it will not be able to catch any of the new variants that may come out.


Just a final reminder for you. I am trying to stress these two points.
UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE!!! Make sure you do this about every 1-2 weeks.
Make sure all of your security programs are up to date.
Run the spybot and adaware regularly. (Once or twice a week minimum.)
Visit Microsoft's Windows Update Site Frequently - It is important that you visit http://www.windowsupdate.com regularly. This will ensure your computer has always the latest security updates available installed on your computer. If there are new updates to install, install them immediately, reboot your computer, and revisit the site until there are no more critical updates.



Once again, please post and tell me how things are going with your system... problems etc.

Have a great day,
Blade
 
Hi Blade.

The symptoms are gone! I'm in the process of updating everything as per your instructions. One problem I have is that on the Java website I can't find the line: "The J2SE Runtime Environment (JRE) allows end-users to run Java applications" - there is another option, Java Runtime Environment (JRE) 6u1, which has the line "The Java SE Runtime Environment (JRE) allows end-users to run Java applications" - I'm going to assume this is what you mean, but will wait for the thumbs up before I download anything.

Thanks a million!

Dharma.
 
Glad we could help, :) as the problem appears to be resolved this topic has been archived.

If you need it re-opened please send me a private message (pm) and provide a link to the thread. Applies only to the original poster, anyone else with similar problems please start a new topic.
 
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