Problem with Virus killing computer

[Guest]

Hello,
I have had some serious problems with my computer. Somehow I’ve got a
windows XP security centre and I keep getting a bubble up saying “danger!
Your computer is at risk†and it has changed my background to DANGER YOUR
COMPUTER IS AT RISK and it’s a full black screen. I cannot change this
background. It also takes forever for my PC to start and the icons disappear
from my desktop until the black background comes up.

I’ve ran hijack this in safe mode, AVG antivirus and Ad aware and I still
have the same problems. If I re-install Windows will this solve the problem
or is there any other way of solving this problem.

Also I would like to get rid of this windows xp security centre. I think it
was added in a windows live toolbar update

Any help would be appreciated!

 

[DatabaseBen]

security center is controlled from services via admin tools.

the other issue is probably a rogue screensaver, so check out your
screensaver settings and background image...

if not, it could be some other things to look into
but i think it would simply be easier for you to
restore your computer to a state prior
to getting the message. Go to your
restore and look for a restore point
that you think is clear of the message.

if it fixes the problem, then take care you
do not reinstall whatever it was that corrupted
your system.

if it does not fix the problem, then we can look
a little further for the cause of the problem......

 

[Mike Hall - MS MVP Windows Shell/User]

Spyware/Adware/Scumware has become a major player in compromising
computers.. they introduce viruses, trojans and worms.. they attempt to send
out information about you, and they also slow your computer down..



The worst of it is that you probably downloaded the spyware, albeit
inadvertently..



Some basic steps to removing Spyware/Adware..



First step is to run a one shot virus remover.. I have found that Trend
Housecall works for people.. download and run it..



http://housecall.trendmicro.com/



... select the 'online scan' and follow the directions given.



This takes a while to complete but is a necessary first step.



You will also need to download Spyware removal software.. Spybot and Adaware
are available at these websites.. both are free.. download and run them..
don't forget to check for updates after you have started them..



Adaware SE - http://www.lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware/



... and how to use it..
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/tutorials/tutorial48.html



SpyBot S&D - http://www.safer-networking.org/



... and how to use it..
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/tutorials/tutorial43.html



Spybot has the ability to immunize a system, but there is better for this
function, so download and run Spyware Blaster too.. again, check for
updates..



SpywareBlaster - http://www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareblaster.html



... and how to use it..
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/tutorials/tutorial49.html



NOTE.. FOR Windows XP users ONLY.. Ewido Suite - http://www.ewido.net/en/ ..



A trial version is available, and they also allow for an online scan



CWShredder will eliminate CoolWebSearch and variants.. there is a free
download here..



CWShredder.. http://www.intermute.com/spysubtract/cwshredder_download.html



To use CWShredder, simply start the program, use 'check for update' to make
sure you have the latest version, then hit 'fix.' It will check your system
against a list of current CWS variants, and fix any infections it finds.







You must also run a firewall and anti-virus program.. here are some links
for you..



Zonealarm Firewall (free)..http://www.zonealarm.com .. recommended



AVG Anti-virus (free).. http://free.grisoft.com/freeweb.php/doc/2/ ..
recommended



The weekly 'housekeeping' will not take long.. run Adaware, Spybot, and
SpywareBlaster weekly, ensuring that you update them prior to starting a
scan.