Zlob-Related: Can Disable but not Delete ActiveX Add-ons

I tried to d/l a fake video codec earlier and stupidly clicked OK to some ActiveX scripts. Now, in IE 7 only, there is [was] something going on, sort of like my homepage has been hijacked even though it still opens with Yahoo Mail, which I want. I get a "Spyware Found" type of window and when I try to close it I am redirected to here [DANGER - MALWARE]

http ://sc.videofreeMALWARE!foronline.com/id/4912933/4/1/

Aside from IE everything seems to be working fine and Firefox is unaffected. Here is a screenshot of one of the "SpywareFound" windows (which opened with Firefox even though it originated with IE):

https://discussions.virtualdr.com/im...2008/10/32.jpg

I remembered allowing a few (possibly 3) ActiveX script installs and Spybot-S&D asked me if I wanted to allow them (I did each time). I posted an HJT log at the Spyware Warrior forum but there is no reply at this time.

I found this article on How To Delete Internet Explorer 7 ActiveX Controls and decided to investigate. I must have mis-read the article b/c I chose "Add-ons currently loaded in IE" instead of "Downloaded ActiveX Controls" from the Show: drop-down box. I noticed 3 odd-sounding controls:

• Diagnose Connection Problems - Browser Extension (one of the phony IE windows)

• Research - Browser Extension

• "Soplygui" - Browser Helper Object (rgf.dll)

I am able to Disable these items but for some (suspicious) reason the "Delete" button in the "Delete ActiveX" box is greyed out:

https://discussions.virtualdr.com/im...2008/10/33.jpg

IE seems to be working fine now but I would feel better if those ActiveX controls were completely off of my XP SP3 system.

I just ran a Malwarebytes full scan and it found "C:\WINDOWS\k.txt (Trojan.FakeAlert)" (I have not removed it yet). Here is the log:

Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware 1.28
Database version: 1225
Windows 5.1.2600 Service Pack 3

10/2/2008 10:50:45 PM
mbam-log-2008-10-02 (22-50-35).txt

Scan type: Full Scan (C:\|)
Objects scanned: 115755
Time elapsed: 38 minute(s), 40 second(s)

Memory Processes Infected: 0
Memory Modules Infected: 0
Registry Keys Infected: 0
Registry Values Infected: 0
Registry Data Items Infected: 0
Folders Infected: 0
Files Infected: 1

Memory Processes Infected:
(No malicious items detected)

Memory Modules Infected:
(No malicious items detected)

Registry Keys Infected:
(No malicious items detected)

Registry Values Infected:
(No malicious items detected)

Registry Data Items Infected:
(No malicious items detected)

Folders Infected:
(No malicious items detected)

Files Infected:
C:\WINDOWS\k.txt (Trojan.FakeAlert) -> No action taken.

Run a full scan again with MBAM and this time remove the object.

Please download SmitfraudFix (by S!Ri)
Extract the content (a folder named SmitfraudFix) to your Desktop.

Open the SmitfraudFix folder and double-click smitfraudfix.cmd
Select option #1 - Search by typing 1 and press "Enter"; a text file will appear, which lists infected files (if present).
Please copy/paste the content of that report into your next reply.

Note : process.exe is detected by some antivirus programs (AntiVir, Dr.Web, Kaspersky) as a "RiskTool"; it is not a virus, but a program used to stop system processes. Antivirus programs cannot distinguish between "good" and "malicious" use of such programs, therefore they may alert the user.
http://www.beyondlogic.org/consulting/proc...processutil.htm

==

Download HijackThis Executable from here. Save it to your desktop.

I did another full scan with MBAM and removed the object.

I have run the SmitFraudFix and here is the log:

SmitFraudFix v2.356

Scan done at 9:24:27.60, Fri 10/03/2008
Run from C:\Documents and Settings\John\Desktop\SmitfraudFix
OS: Microsoft Windows XP [Version 5.1.2600] - Windows_NT
The filesystem type is NTFS
Fix run in normal mode

»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» Process

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\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\aawservice.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\dcsuserprot.exe
C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\ekrn.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\nvsvc32.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\Program Files\Microsoft Hardware\Keyboard\type32.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\RunDll32.exe
C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\pgaccount.exe
C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Search Protection\SearchProtection.exe
C:\Program Files\VIA\RAID\raid_tool.exe
C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\egui.exe
C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\jusched.exe
C:\Program Files\Microsoft IntelliPoint\ipoint.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\RUNDLL32.EXE
c:\Program Files\Microsoft IntelliPoint\dpupdchk.exe
C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\procguard.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\ctfmon.exe
C:\Program Files\Spybot - Search & Destroy\TeaTimer.exe
C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboTaskBarIcon.exe
C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSuite.exe
C:\Program Files\Gadwin Systems\PrintScreen\PrintScreen.exe
C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSync2.exe
C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\ServiceLayer.exe
C:\Program Files\DNA\btdna.exe
C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\Transports\NclRSSrv.exe
C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\Transports\NclUSBSrv.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Nokia\MPAPI\MPAPI3s.exe
C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\iexplore.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\WINZIP\winzip32.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\cmd.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\cmd.exe

»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» hosts


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\WINDOWS


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\WINDOWS\system


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\WINDOWS\Web


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\WINDOWS\system32


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\WINDOWS\system32\LogFiles


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\Documents and Settings\John


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\Documents and Settings\John\Application Data


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» Start Menu


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\DOCUME~1\John\FAVORI~1


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» Desktop


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» C:\Program Files


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» Corrupted keys


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» Desktop Components

[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Desktop\Components\0]
"Source"="About:Home"
"SubscribedURL"="About:Home"
"FriendlyName"="My Current Home Page"


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» o4Patch
!!!Attention, following keys are not inevitably infected!!!

o4Patch
Credits: Malware Analysis & Diagnostic
Code: S!Ri



»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» IEDFix
!!!Attention, following keys are not inevitably infected!!!

IEDFix
Credits: Malware Analysis & Diagnostic
Code: S!Ri

[!] Suspicious: rgf.dll
BHO: Soplygui - {BCCCB3D5-17DC-43DD-9F46-A31AB28FECB2}
TypeLib: {15C7D7AD-A87A-4C0D-9D8B-637FCD3488EF}
VersionIndependentProgID: plodaq.Bho
ProgID: monamia2



»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» VACFix
!!!Attention, following keys are not inevitably infected!!!

VACFix
Credits: Malware Analysis & Diagnostic
Code: S!Ri


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» 404Fix
!!!Attention, following keys are not inevitably infected!!!

404Fix
Credits: Malware Analysis & Diagnostic
Code: S!Ri


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» AntiXPVSTFix
!!!Attention, following keys are not inevitably infected!!!

AntiXPVSTFix
Credits: Malware Analysis & Diagnostic
Code: S!Ri



»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» Sharedtaskscheduler
!!!Attention, following keys are not inevitably infected!!!

SrchSTS.exe by S!Ri
Search SharedTaskScheduler's .dll


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» AppInit_DLLs
!!!Attention, following keys are not inevitably infected!!!

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows]
"AppInit_DLLs"=" "
"LoadAppInit_DLLs"=dword:00000001


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» Winlogon
!!!Attention, following keys are not inevitably infected!!!

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon]
"Userinit"="C:\\WINDOWS\\system32\\userinit.exe,"
"System"=""


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» RK



»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» DNS

Description: MSI/Broadcom 440x 10/100 Integrated Controller - Packet Scheduler Miniport
DNS Server Search Order: 208.71.161.249
DNS Server Search Order: 204.174.16.4
DNS Server Search Order: 204.174.18.2

HKLM\SYSTEM\CCS\Services\Tcpip\..\{778EF0CA-9F07-4A2A-B14B-E877D745080A}: DhcpNameServer=208.71.161.249 204.174.16.4 204.174.18.2
HKLM\SYSTEM\CS1\Services\Tcpip\..\{32B9BA49-379B-4104-BFF2-DD4E9D3AC33E}: NameServer=63.93.96.20 63.93.96.21
HKLM\SYSTEM\CS3\Services\Tcpip\..\{778EF0CA-9F07-4A2A-B14B-E877D745080A}: DhcpNameServer=208.71.161.249 204.174.16.4 204.174.18.2
HKLM\SYSTEM\CCS\Services\Tcpip\Parameters: DhcpNameServer=208.71.161.249 204.174.16.4 204.174.18.2
HKLM\SYSTEM\CS3\Services\Tcpip\Parameters: DhcpNameServer=208.71.161.249 204.174.16.4 204.174.18.2


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» Scanning for wininet.dll infection


»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» End

The Trend Micro HJT log:

Logfile of Trend Micro HijackThis v2.0.2
Scan saved at 9:39:42 AM, on 10/3/2008
Platform: Windows XP SP3 (WinNT 5.01.2600)
MSIE: Internet Explorer v7.00 (7.00.6000.16705)
Boot mode: Normal

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\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\aawservice.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\dcsuserprot.exe
C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\ekrn.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\nvsvc32.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\Program Files\Microsoft Hardware\Keyboard\type32.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\RunDll32.exe
C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\pgaccount.exe
C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Search Protection\SearchProtection.exe
C:\Program Files\VIA\RAID\raid_tool.exe
C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\egui.exe
C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\jusched.exe
C:\Program Files\Microsoft IntelliPoint\ipoint.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\RUNDLL32.EXE
c:\Program Files\Microsoft IntelliPoint\dpupdchk.exe
C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\procguard.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\ctfmon.exe
C:\Program Files\Spybot - Search & Destroy\TeaTimer.exe
C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboTaskBarIcon.exe
C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSuite.exe
C:\Program Files\Gadwin Systems\PrintScreen\PrintScreen.exe
C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSync2.exe
C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\ServiceLayer.exe
C:\Program Files\DNA\btdna.exe
C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\Transports\NclRSSrv.exe
C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\Transports\NclUSBSrv.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Nokia\MPAPI\MPAPI3s.exe
C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\iexplore.exe
C:\Program Files\HiJackThis Trend Micro.exe

R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Search Bar = http://us.rd.yahoo.com/customize/yco...search/ie.html
R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Search Page = http://us.rd.yahoo.com/customize/yco.../www.yahoo.com
R0 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page = mail.yahoo.com/
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Page_URL = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=69157
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Search_URL = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=54896
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Search Page = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=54896
R0 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=69157
R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\SearchURL,(Default) = http://us.rd.yahoo.com/customize/yco.../www.yahoo.com
R0 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Local Page =
R0 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Local Page =
R3 - URLSearchHook: Yahoo! Toolbar - {EF99BD32-C1FB-11D2-892F-0090271D4F88} - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Companion\Installs\cpn4\yt.dll
R3 - URLSearchHook: Mininova Toolbar - {f592709f-ff4a-4862-b659-4afabda56312} - C:\Program Files\Mininova\tbMini.dll
O2 - BHO: (no name) - rsion - (no file)
O2 - BHO: &Yahoo! Toolbar Helper - {02478D38-C3F9-4EFB-9B51-7695ECA05670} - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Companion\Installs\cpn4\yt.dll
O2 - BHO: AcroIEHelperStub - {18DF081C-E8AD-4283-A596-FA578C2EBDC3} - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Adobe\Acrobat\ActiveX\AcroIEHelperShim.dll
O2 - BHO: Spybot-S&D IE Protection - {53707962-6F74-2D53-2644-206D7942484F} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYBOT~1\SDHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: EmailBHO - {647FD14A-C4F1-46F4-8FC3-0B40F54226F7} - C:\Program Files\jZip\WebmailPlugin.dll
O2 - BHO: RoboForm - {724d43a9-0d85-11d4-9908-00400523e39a} - C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\roboform.dll
O2 - BHO: SSVHelper Class - {761497BB-D6F0-462C-B6EB-D4DAF1D92D43} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\ssv.dll
O2 - BHO: Soplygui - {BCCCB3D5-17DC-43DD-9F46-A31AB28FECB2} - C:\WINDOWS\system32\rgf.dll
O2 - BHO: Mininova Toolbar - {f592709f-ff4a-4862-b659-4afabda56312} - C:\Program Files\Mininova\tbMini.dll
O2 - BHO: SingleInstance Class - {FDAD4DA1-61A2-4FD8-9C17-86F7AC245081} - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Companion\Installs\cpn4\YTSingleInstance.dll
O3 - Toolbar: &RoboForm - {724d43a0-0d85-11d4-9908-00400523e39a} - C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\roboform.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Yahoo! Toolbar - {EF99BD32-C1FB-11D2-892F-0090271D4F88} - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Companion\Installs\cpn4\yt.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Mininova Toolbar - {f592709f-ff4a-4862-b659-4afabda56312} - C:\Program Files\Mininova\tbMini.dll
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IntelliType] "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Hardware\Keyboard\type32.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Cmaudio] RunDll32 cmicnfg.cpl,CMICtrlWnd
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NeroCheck] C:\WINDOWS\System32\\NeroCheck.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [!1_pgaccount] "C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\pgaccount.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [YSearchProtection] "C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Search Protection\SearchProtection.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvCplDaemon] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\system32\NvCpl.dll,NvStartup
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [nwiz] nwiz.exe /install
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [POINTER] point32.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [RaidTool] C:\Program Files\VIA\RAID\raid_tool.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [egui] "C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\egui.exe" /hide /waitservice
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SunJavaUpdateSched] "C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\jusched.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IntelliPoint] "c:\Program Files\Microsoft IntelliPoint\ipoint.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvMediaCenter] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\system32\NvMcTray.dll,NvTaskbarInit
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Adobe Reader Speed Launcher] "C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 9.0\Reader\Reader_sl.exe"
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [ccleaner] "C:\Program Files\CCleaner\ccleaner.exe" /AUTO
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [!1_ProcessGuard_Startup] "C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\procguard.exe" -minimize
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [ctfmon.exe] C:\WINDOWS\system32\ctfmon.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [SpybotSD TeaTimer] C:\Program Files\Spybot - Search & Destroy\TeaTimer.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [RoboForm] "C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboTaskBarIcon.exe"
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [PC Suite Tray] "C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSuite.exe" -onlytray
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Gadwin PrintScreen] C:\Program Files\Gadwin Systems\PrintScreen\PrintScreen.exe /nosplash
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Nokia.PCSync] "C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSync2.exe" /NoDialog
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [BitTorrent DNA] "C:\Program Files\DNA\btdna.exe"
O8 - Extra context menu item: Customize Menu - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComCustomizeIEMenu.html
O8 - Extra context menu item: E&xport to Microsoft Excel - res://C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~3\OFFICE11\EXCEL.EXE/3000
O8 - Extra context menu item: Fill Forms - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComFillForms.html
O8 - Extra context menu item: Save Forms - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComSavePass.html
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\ssv.dll
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Sun Java Console - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\ssv.dll
O9 - Extra button: Fill Forms - {320AF880-6646-11D3-ABEE-C5DBF3571F46} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComFillForms.html
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Fill Forms - {320AF880-6646-11D3-ABEE-C5DBF3571F46} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComFillForms.html
O9 - Extra button: Save - {320AF880-6646-11D3-ABEE-C5DBF3571F49} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComSavePass.html
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Save Forms - {320AF880-6646-11D3-ABEE-C5DBF3571F49} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComSavePass.html
O9 - Extra button: RoboForm - {724d43aa-0d85-11d4-9908-00400523e39a} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComShowToolbar.html
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: RoboForm Toolbar - {724d43aa-0d85-11d4-9908-00400523e39a} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComShowToolbar.html
O9 - Extra button: Research - {92780B25-18CC-41C8-B9BE-3C9C571A8263} - C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~3\OFFICE11\REFIEBAR.DLL
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {DFB852A3-47F8-48C4-A200-58CAB36FD2A2} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYBOT~1\SDHelper.dll
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Spybot - Search & Destroy Configuration - {DFB852A3-47F8-48C4-A200-58CAB36FD2A2} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYBOT~1\SDHelper.dll
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {e2e2dd38-d088-4134-82b7-f2ba38496583} - C:\WINDOWS\Network Diagnostic\xpnetdiag.exe
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: @xpsp3res.dll,-20001 - {e2e2dd38-d088-4134-82b7-f2ba38496583} - C:\WINDOWS\Network Diagnostic\xpnetdiag.exe
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
O10 - Unknown file in Winsock LSP: c:\windows\system32\nwprovau.dll
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://forums.wireless.att.com
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://asia.msi.com.tw
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://global.msi.com.tw
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://www.msi.com.tw
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://forums.logitech.com
O16 - DPF: {0E5F0222-96B9-11D3-8997-00104BD12D94} (PCPitstop Utility) - http://utilities.pcpitstop.com/da/PCPitStop.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} (Installation Support) - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Common\Yinsthelper.dll
O16 - DPF: {6414512B-B978-451D-A0D8-FCFDF33E833C} (WUWebControl Class) - http://www.update.microsoft.com/micr...?1189815684515
O16 - DPF: {6E32070A-766D-4EE6-879C-DC1FA91D2FC3} (MUWebControl Class) - http://www.update.microsoft.com/micr...?1189815574421
O16 - DPF: {74DBCB52-F298-4110-951D-AD2FF67BC8AB} (NVIDIA Smart Scan) - http://www.nvidia.com/content/Driver...aSmartScan.cab
O16 - DPF: {8167C273-DF59-4416-B647-C8BB2C7EE83E} (WebSDev Control) - http://liveupdate.msi.com.tw/autobio...ne/install.cab
O16 - DPF: {D27CDB6E-AE6D-11CF-96B8-444553540000} (Shockwave Flash Object) - http://fpdownload2.macromedia.com/ge...sh/swflash.cab
O20 - AppInit_DLLs:
O23 - Service: Lavasoft Ad-Aware Service (aawservice) - Lavasoft - C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\aawservice.exe
O23 - Service: DiamondCS ProcessGuard Service v3.410 (DCSPGSRV) - DiamondCS - C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\dcsuserprot.exe
O23 - Service: Eset HTTP Server (EhttpSrv) - ESET - C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\EHttpSrv.exe
O23 - Service: Eset Service (ekrn) - ESET - C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\ekrn.exe
O23 - Service: Norton Unerase Protection (NProtectService) - Unknown owner - (no file)
O23 - Service: NVIDIA Display Driver Service (NVSvc) - NVIDIA Corporation - C:\WINDOWS\system32\nvsvc32.exe
O23 - Service: ServiceLayer - Nokia. - C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\ServiceLayer.exe
O23 - Service: SureThing Labelflash service - MicroVision Development, Inc. - C:\Program Files\Common Files\SureThing Shared\stllssvr.exe
O23 - Service: SymWMI Service (SymWSC) - Unknown owner - (no file)

--
End of file - 11715 bytes

Please go to Jotti's or to virustotal and have this file scanned. Post the results back here.

C:\WINDOWS\system32\rgf.dll

I will do that. I found in Spybot the "Allowed registry changes" (there were 4) that gave me the BHOs. Have not deleted them yet. Also, a Spybot-S&D scan turned up SpyHunter which I also plan to delete.

Jotti scan results:

File: rgf.dll
Status: INFECTED/MALWARE
MD5: adf77ce5a84d5bf12788f41a4b76a77a
Packers detected: -

Scanner results
Scan taken on 03 Oct 2008 21:21:53 (GMT)
A-Squared Found nothing
AntiVir Found HEUR/Malware
ArcaVir Found nothing
Avast Found nothing
AVG Antivirus Found nothing
BitDefender Found nothing
ClamAV Found nothing
CPsecure Found nothing
Dr.Web Found Adware.Bho.73
F-Prot Antivirus Found nothing
F-Secure Anti-Virus Found nothing
G DATA Found nothing
Ikarus Found nothing
Kaspersky Anti-Virus Found not-a-virus:FraudTool.Win32.TotalSecure2009.s
NOD32 Found nothing
Norman Virus Control Found nothing
Panda Antivirus Found nothing
Sophos Antivirus Found nothing
VirusBuster Found nothing
VBA32 Found nothing

Last file scanned at least one scanner reported something about: serwer.exe (MD5: 1934bf3f2c2f3d3cbbc90dac11f70bea, size: 17456 bytes), detected by:

Scanner Malware name
A-Squared X
AntiVir X
ArcaVir X
Avast X
AVG Antivirus X
BitDefender BehavesLike:Win32.Malware
ClamAV X
CPsecure X
Dr.Web X
F-Prot Antivirus X
F-Secure Anti-Virus Trojan.Win32.Agent.afly
G DATA BehavesLike:Win32.Malware
Ikarus Virus.Trojan.Win32.Agent.afly
Kaspersky Anti-Virus Trojan.Win32.Agent.afly
NOD32 X
Norman Virus Control W32/Agent.IRJD
Panda Antivirus X
Sophos Antivirus X
VirusBuster X
VBA32 X

Can you please do the following.

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

You will have to disable Spybot's Teatimer before we begin, as it will interfere with the fix. To do this can you start Spybot and go to the Mode button and select Advanced. Go to Tools > Resident and uncheck the box next to Tea-Timer. Make sure that the icon in the system tray is no longer there. If it is, just right click on it and select "Exit".
Download ResetTeaTimer.bat.
Double click ResetTeaTimer.bat to remove all entries set by TeaTimer.
Do not forget to re-enable teatimer when we are done :).
If teatimer gives you a warning afterwards that some changes were made, allow this instead of blocking it.

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

Scan with HijackThis and then place a check next to all the following, if present:


R0 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Local Page =
R0 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Local Page =

O2 - BHO: (no name) - rsion - (no file)
O2 - BHO: Soplygui - {BCCCB3D5-17DC-43DD-9F46-A31AB28FECB2} - C:\WINDOWS\system32\rgf.dll


Now, close all instances of Internet Explorer and any other windows you have open except HiJackThis, click "Fix checked".

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

Locate and delete the following item(s), if present. Make sure you are able to view system and hidden files/ folders:

files...

C:\WINDOWS\system32\rgf.dll

-

Note that some of these file(s)/folder(s) may or may not be present. If present, and cannot be deleted because they're 'in use', try deleting them in Safe Mode by doing the following:

• Restart your computer
• After hearing your computer beep once during startup, but before the Windows icon appears, press F8.
• Instead of Windows loading as normal, a menu should appear.

Select the first option to run Windows in Safe Mode hit enter.

-

Reboot.

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

After rebooting, rescan with hijackthis and post back a new log. Please let me know how your pc is now.

I have now done everything in your last post (well, actually I deleted C:\WINDOWS\system32\rgf.dll with KillBox last night before reading your last post). Spybot's TeaTimer is re-enabled (nice to find out about ResetTeaTimer.bat).

Here's my latest Trend Micro HJT log:

Logfile of Trend Micro HijackThis v2.0.2
Scan saved at 4:33:26 PM, on 10/4/2008
Platform: Windows XP SP3 (WinNT 5.01.2600)
MSIE: Internet Explorer v7.00 (7.00.6000.16705)
Boot mode: Normal

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\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\aawservice.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\Program Files\Microsoft Hardware\Keyboard\type32.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\RunDll32.exe
C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\pgaccount.exe
C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Search Protection\SearchProtection.exe
C:\Program Files\VIA\RAID\raid_tool.exe
C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\egui.exe
C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\jusched.exe
C:\Program Files\Microsoft IntelliPoint\ipoint.exe
C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 9.0\Reader\Reader_sl.exe
C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\procguard.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\ctfmon.exe
C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboTaskBarIcon.exe
C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSuite.exe
C:\Program Files\Gadwin Systems\PrintScreen\PrintScreen.exe
C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSync2.exe
C:\Program Files\DNA\btdna.exe
c:\Program Files\Microsoft IntelliPoint\dpupdchk.exe
C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\dcsuserprot.exe
C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\ekrn.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\nvsvc32.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\ServiceLayer.exe
C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\Transports\NclRSSrv.exe
C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\Transports\NclUSBSrv.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Nokia\MPAPI\MPAPI3s.exe
C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\iexplore.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\wuauclt.exe
C:\Program Files\Spybot - Search & Destroy\TeaTimer.exe
C:\Program Files\HiJackThis Trend Micro.exe

R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Search Bar = http://us.rd.yahoo.com/customize/yco...search/ie.html
R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Search Page = http://us.rd.yahoo.com/customize/yco.../www.yahoo.com
R0 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page = mail.yahoo.com/
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Page_URL = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=69157
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Search_URL = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=54896
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Search Page = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=54896
R0 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page = http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=69157
R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\SearchURL,(Default) = http://us.rd.yahoo.com/customize/yco.../www.yahoo.com
R3 - URLSearchHook: Yahoo! Toolbar - {EF99BD32-C1FB-11D2-892F-0090271D4F88} - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Companion\Installs\cpn4\yt.dll
R3 - URLSearchHook: Mininova Toolbar - {f592709f-ff4a-4862-b659-4afabda56312} - C:\Program Files\Mininova\tbMini.dll
O2 - BHO: &Yahoo! Toolbar Helper - {02478D38-C3F9-4EFB-9B51-7695ECA05670} - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Companion\Installs\cpn4\yt.dll
O2 - BHO: AcroIEHelperStub - {18DF081C-E8AD-4283-A596-FA578C2EBDC3} - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Adobe\Acrobat\ActiveX\AcroIEHelperShim.dll
O2 - BHO: Spybot-S&D IE Protection - {53707962-6F74-2D53-2644-206D7942484F} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYBOT~1\SDHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: EmailBHO - {647FD14A-C4F1-46F4-8FC3-0B40F54226F7} - C:\Program Files\jZip\WebmailPlugin.dll
O2 - BHO: RoboForm - {724d43a9-0d85-11d4-9908-00400523e39a} - C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\roboform.dll
O2 - BHO: SSVHelper Class - {761497BB-D6F0-462C-B6EB-D4DAF1D92D43} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\ssv.dll
O2 - BHO: Mininova Toolbar - {f592709f-ff4a-4862-b659-4afabda56312} - C:\Program Files\Mininova\tbMini.dll
O2 - BHO: SingleInstance Class - {FDAD4DA1-61A2-4FD8-9C17-86F7AC245081} - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Companion\Installs\cpn4\YTSingleInstance.dll
O3 - Toolbar: &RoboForm - {724d43a0-0d85-11d4-9908-00400523e39a} - C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\roboform.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Yahoo! Toolbar - {EF99BD32-C1FB-11D2-892F-0090271D4F88} - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Companion\Installs\cpn4\yt.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Mininova Toolbar - {f592709f-ff4a-4862-b659-4afabda56312} - C:\Program Files\Mininova\tbMini.dll
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IntelliType] "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Hardware\Keyboard\type32.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Cmaudio] RunDll32 cmicnfg.cpl,CMICtrlWnd
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NeroCheck] C:\WINDOWS\System32\\NeroCheck.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [!1_pgaccount] "C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\pgaccount.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [YSearchProtection] "C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Search Protection\SearchProtection.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvCplDaemon] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\system32\NvCpl.dll,NvStartup
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [nwiz] nwiz.exe /install
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [POINTER] point32.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [RaidTool] C:\Program Files\VIA\RAID\raid_tool.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [egui] "C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\egui.exe" /hide /waitservice
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SunJavaUpdateSched] "C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\jusched.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IntelliPoint] "c:\Program Files\Microsoft IntelliPoint\ipoint.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NvMediaCenter] RUNDLL32.EXE C:\WINDOWS\system32\NvMcTray.dll,NvTaskbarInit
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Adobe Reader Speed Launcher] "C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 9.0\Reader\Reader_sl.exe"
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [ccleaner] "C:\Program Files\CCleaner\ccleaner.exe" /AUTO
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [!1_ProcessGuard_Startup] "C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\procguard.exe" -minimize
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [ctfmon.exe] C:\WINDOWS\system32\ctfmon.exe
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [RoboForm] "C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboTaskBarIcon.exe"
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [PC Suite Tray] "C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSuite.exe" -onlytray
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Gadwin PrintScreen] C:\Program Files\Gadwin Systems\PrintScreen\PrintScreen.exe /nosplash
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [Nokia.PCSync] "C:\Program Files\Nokia\Nokia PC Suite 7\PCSync2.exe" /NoDialog
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [BitTorrent DNA] "C:\Program Files\DNA\btdna.exe"
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [SpybotSD TeaTimer] C:\Program Files\Spybot - Search & Destroy\TeaTimer.exe
O8 - Extra context menu item: Customize Menu - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComCustomizeIEMenu.html
O8 - Extra context menu item: E&xport to Microsoft Excel - res://C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~3\OFFICE11\EXCEL.EXE/3000
O8 - Extra context menu item: Fill Forms - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComFillForms.html
O8 - Extra context menu item: Save Forms - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComSavePass.html
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\ssv.dll
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Sun Java Console - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.6.0_07\bin\ssv.dll
O9 - Extra button: Fill Forms - {320AF880-6646-11D3-ABEE-C5DBF3571F46} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComFillForms.html
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Fill Forms - {320AF880-6646-11D3-ABEE-C5DBF3571F46} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComFillForms.html
O9 - Extra button: Save - {320AF880-6646-11D3-ABEE-C5DBF3571F49} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComSavePass.html
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Save Forms - {320AF880-6646-11D3-ABEE-C5DBF3571F49} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComSavePass.html
O9 - Extra button: RoboForm - {724d43aa-0d85-11d4-9908-00400523e39a} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComShowToolbar.html
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: RoboForm Toolbar - {724d43aa-0d85-11d4-9908-00400523e39a} - file://C:\Program Files\Siber Systems\AI RoboForm\RoboFormComShowToolbar.html
O9 - Extra button: Research - {92780B25-18CC-41C8-B9BE-3C9C571A8263} - C:\PROGRA~1\MICROS~3\OFFICE11\REFIEBAR.DLL
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {DFB852A3-47F8-48C4-A200-58CAB36FD2A2} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYBOT~1\SDHelper.dll
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Spybot - Search & Destroy Configuration - {DFB852A3-47F8-48C4-A200-58CAB36FD2A2} - C:\PROGRA~1\SPYBOT~1\SDHelper.dll
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {e2e2dd38-d088-4134-82b7-f2ba38496583} - C:\WINDOWS\Network Diagnostic\xpnetdiag.exe
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: @xpsp3res.dll,-20001 - {e2e2dd38-d088-4134-82b7-f2ba38496583} - C:\WINDOWS\Network Diagnostic\xpnetdiag.exe
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
O10 - Unknown file in Winsock LSP: c:\windows\system32\nwprovau.dll
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://forums.wireless.att.com
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://asia.msi.com.tw
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://global.msi.com.tw
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://www.msi.com.tw
O15 - Trusted Zone: http://forums.logitech.com
O16 - DPF: {0E5F0222-96B9-11D3-8997-00104BD12D94} (PCPitstop Utility) - http://utilities.pcpitstop.com/da/PCPitStop.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} (Installation Support) - C:\Program Files\Yahoo!\Common\Yinsthelper.dll
O16 - DPF: {6414512B-B978-451D-A0D8-FCFDF33E833C} (WUWebControl Class) - http://www.update.microsoft.com/micr...?1189815684515
O16 - DPF: {6E32070A-766D-4EE6-879C-DC1FA91D2FC3} (MUWebControl Class) - http://www.update.microsoft.com/micr...?1189815574421
O16 - DPF: {74DBCB52-F298-4110-951D-AD2FF67BC8AB} (NVIDIA Smart Scan) - http://www.nvidia.com/content/Driver...aSmartScan.cab
O16 - DPF: {8167C273-DF59-4416-B647-C8BB2C7EE83E} (WebSDev Control) - http://liveupdate.msi.com.tw/autobio...ne/install.cab
O16 - DPF: {D27CDB6E-AE6D-11CF-96B8-444553540000} (Shockwave Flash Object) - http://fpdownload2.macromedia.com/ge...sh/swflash.cab
O20 - AppInit_DLLs:
O23 - Service: Lavasoft Ad-Aware Service (aawservice) - Lavasoft - C:\Program Files\Lavasoft\Ad-Aware\aawservice.exe
O23 - Service: DiamondCS ProcessGuard Service v3.410 (DCSPGSRV) - DiamondCS - C:\Program Files\ProcessGuard\dcsuserprot.exe
O23 - Service: Eset HTTP Server (EhttpSrv) - ESET - C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\EHttpSrv.exe
O23 - Service: Eset Service (ekrn) - ESET - C:\Program Files\ESET\ESET Smart Security\ekrn.exe
O23 - Service: Norton Unerase Protection (NProtectService) - Unknown owner - (no file)
O23 - Service: NVIDIA Display Driver Service (NVSvc) - NVIDIA Corporation - C:\WINDOWS\system32\nvsvc32.exe
O23 - Service: ServiceLayer - Nokia. - C:\Program Files\PC Connectivity Solution\ServiceLayer.exe
O23 - Service: SureThing Labelflash service - MicroVision Development, Inc. - C:\Program Files\Common Files\SureThing Shared\stllssvr.exe
O23 - Service: SymWMI Service (SymWSC) - Unknown owner - (no file)

--
End of file - 11504 bytes

Many thanks for all of your kind help!:) Btw, there were no hidden or "in use" C:\WINDOWS\system32\rgf.dll files and I didn't need to use Safe Mode.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by 307WRC

Many thanks for all of your kind help!:)

---

No worries :).
Log looks good now.

Now that your PC is clean you need to follow these easy steps to keeping it this way:

Download CCleaner and install, then run it. It will clear out your temp folders.

1. Uncheck "Cookies" under "Internet Explorer".
2. Click on Run Cleaner in the lower right-hand corner. This can take quite a while to run.
3. Close when finished.

====

An alternative to Ccleaner is ATF Cleaner.
Download ATF (Atribune Temp File) Cleaner by Atribune to your desktop.

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.

====

Use an alternative browser! Download FireFox and give it a run. It is far more secure than Internet Explorer. Or, you can get Opera, which in my opinion, is better still.

====

Use a firewall. It is an essential part of your computers security. There is a link to a good, free firewall in my signature.

====

Install and keep updated,
Spybot S&D.
Run it on a regular basis, following the maker's recommendations.

====

Install an anti-virus. There are some good, free AV's available today. Make sure that it is updated regularly and have it scan your system often.

====

Check for Windows Updates. Microsoft regularly post updates for your systems safe running. Make sure to take advantage of this. Reboot when installed and return to make sure there are no others.

=====

For XP users.
After something like this it is a good idea to Flush the Restore Points and start fresh.
To flush the XP system Restore Points.

Go to Start | Run and type msconfig and press enter.

When msconfig opens, click the Launch System Restore Button.
On the next page, click the System Restore Settings link on the left.

Check the box labelled 'Turn off System restore'.

Reboot. Go back in and Turn System Restore Back on. A new Restore Point will be created.

Note that all previous restore points will be lost.

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

If you have any more problems, post back.

-

Happy surfing,

crunchie.

Thanks for all of the tips. I have been using CCleaner almost daily for over a year now. Why do you suggest to Uncheck "Cookies" under "Internet Explorer"? I always go to CCleaner's Options > Cookies and manually choose which to keep. As for alternative browsers I use Firefox occasionally but prefer IE. I would switch to Opera immediately (I have used v7 & v8 off and on in the past) if only they would support RoboForm.:(

For a firewall & AV I use ESET's Smart Security (NOD32 antivirus). I typically run Spybot-S&D once a month or so. I also have SpywareBlaster. I do a manual check for Windows Updates the 2nd Tuesday of every month.

I will "flush" the XP system Restore Points today.

Virus and malware writers prefer IE too :). Leaving the cookies is up to the individual. I choose that option so that the cookies that allow you to log in automatically do not get deleted :).