I really wasn't sure where to post this question since I'm the "new kid on the block" here, so I will understand if this gets moved to another section. But here is my problem and I'm hoping that someone can help me.
A couple of weeks ago, I noticed that I could no longer check my email on my ISP''s home page. I tried to do this over the course of a few days, thinking that maybe they were having problems with their email servers. (because every time I'd try, I'd get this "error" page, asking me if I wanted to buy prescription drugs)
Anyway, I finally called their technical dept to see if they could help me. They verified my login name and password. They said that they were not having a problem looking at my email. I even called a friend and asked her to do it. She said that she was able to read it.
I went on another message board and asked their advice what to do. They suggested running a virus scan and a scan to see if there was adware or spyware on the computer, and even gave me a website to do a scan from. I even went to places like cnet.com to download some of thier software that is supposed to get rid of that sort of thing. But then I realized that I cannot even download software, or install it from a disk. But when I did go to this one website to find and get rid of the adware and software, it did detect alot of it, but the Internet Explorer window would knock down, or the computer would lock up halfway through the scan.
So, is there any way for me to correct this problem ?. I am getting a new computer in a few weeks when I get my tax refund back. (Yay !) But I want to be able to enjoy my computer and get rid of the spyware/adware that's in it before then.
Thanks for any and alll help everyone !. (as I said I didn't know where to put this message, so if it gets moved I'll understand.) btw, I'm using Windows XP home in case any one can help me !.

Hi Welcome to PCHF

I would definitely suspect an infection...
You may be able to install some help programs-- like Spybot or Ad-Aware by booting into "safe mode".
If you can... have them remove everything they find... then return here and follow the Prework link below/ follow all directions and post a HiJack This log for analysis.

Thanks for the suggestions !. I will definitely give it a try. (once again, sorry for posting this in this board if it wasn't supposed to be here)

Jennifer

We keep it pretty informal here-- no "demerits" or anything

-- I will move this thread to Security forum.