Hello,
I seem to have been infected and I haven't clue how, what it is, how I got it, how to get rid of it and how to prevent getting it again if someone helps me to get rid of it.
It became apparent when I found that I could not connect to internet. I opened my AVIRA free anti virus and found that it was turned off (not by me of course) and it wouldn't let me run a scan. It will not turn on again.
I uninstalled my modem (don't really know why) and found I could not re-install the modem.
Windows firewall remains active.
Seems all problems (probably some I do not know about) are related to internet. Computer working fine otherwise.
Can anyone help me please - I am struggling along with this very slow pc that I keep only to help with my hobby (flytying).

David

Hi Darkwatchet,

Welcome to PCHF! We can help with all of that

I'm Crush the PCHF Security Team Leader and I'll be helping you to remove your Malware. Before we begin there aree some things that you should know:

1. We are all volunteer staff here at PCHF so we log in and assess threads when real life, work, family, and other obligations permit. Additionally, we are located all over the world. There may be a bit of a time delay due to this.

2. Malware Removal threads are very time intensive. Each entry must be researched until it can be said with 100% certainty whether or not it can stay or needs to be removed. Sometimes additional work is needed to weed out suspect entries

3. This may turn into a long ordeal but, rest assured we will stay with you until you are completely disinfected.

4. Please do not run any tools or fixes unless asked to do so by myself or a member of the Security Team

5. If you are not the original poster of this thread DO NOT run any fixes given to the poster in this thread. They are all custom tailored specifically to this user. It could prove to be disastrous. PCHF does not assume any responsibility for users that decide to do so

6. If you have any questions or issues please stop and ask! We are all here to help.

With that out of the way:

Please review the link for Prework found in my signature. This will guide you through the tried and tested method for Malware Removal here. Once you have read the entire thread, and anything linked from it please download and run the requested programs. Once that's done, please post the generated logfiles back here for review.

Thanks very much Crush, my stress level is now reduced. A quick extra question though, regarding the programmes I have to download: since the infected machine cannot get onto the internet, is it ok to download onto a memory stick on this computer to transfer to other?
David

Absolutely

Chris,
I was in the process of downloading the recommended software onto a memory stick at this computer upstairs (the infected pc is downstairs) and the OTL programme download has prompted an XP warning that it is unsafe. Any comment?
David

Hi David,

I was just able to download it fine. It's likely the Malware trying to scare you into keeping it on your machine . I don't know about you but, I don't wan't to allow Malware on my machine even if it pays rent

I'll download it then Chris - the malware isn't on this machine, it's downstairs.
David