windows shutdown problem - all shortcuts deleted from "programs" m

[bugs]

When my Windows XP shuts down, hibernates or standby, all shortcuts in the
"start menu -> programs" folder will be deleted, and the "Show Desktop"
shortcut will mysteriously appear in the folder. I checked the application
and system log, didn't find anything that runs after the system shutdown. Is
there any registry key I should look into, or is there anyway I can setup a
more detail log to track which program is doing this prank? thanks

 

[Ron Badour]

I assume that you have run complete scans with up to date programs and
checked for virus/Trojan/malware, right?

If the PC is clean, do you have a restore point that predates the onset of
this problem? If so, try a system restore.

--
Regards

Ron Badour
MS MVP
Windows Desktop Experience

 

[bugs]

I didn't even know when this bagan. Most of the time I run programs from
desktop shortcuts. When I was aware of this problem, even the earliest system
restore point could not resolve it. Yes I've tried the latest Norton update
and Microsoft malicious software removal tools, couldn't find any malware.

One thing interesting is that if I create a shortcut in the programs menu,
and set its property to "Read Only", it would not be removed after shutdown.

 

[Ron Badour]

You might want to download Spybot and run it.

--
Regards

Ron Badour
MS MVP
Windows Desktop Experience