Expert: Lorry - 3/26/2008

Question
Something infected my system and I started getting pop ups, but could use the computer. I downloaded Norton Security and it told me to disconnect the McAfee system I had running. Now, the computer is UNBELIEVABLY slow and I can not sign on to the internet and I tried getting Norton running and it wont do a scan or it is so slow it can't scan. I do get a spyware/virus warning. I spent a week on this with no progress. What should I do?

Answer
Hi Jim,

Even though you downloaded NIS, using Internet Explorer, go to:

http://security.symantec.com/sscv6/default.asp?langid=ie&venid=sym

Click the GO button, then under Virus Detection, click Start. You might be told that you need to download and install ActiveX Controls for the scan to work, answer Yes.

Write down exactly anything it finds, then go to: http://www.symantec.com/search/  and do a search for what was found. Symantec usually has a removal tool and/or directions for removing manually. Make sure that you follow the instructions for removal, step by step, especially the part regarding disabling System Restore.

I would also suggest downloading Spybot - Search & Destroy 1.5.2:

http://www.download.com/Spybot-Search-Destroy/3000-8022_4-10122137.html

Check for updates before running a scan.

Go to Start, Run, type in MSCONFIG, under the Startup[ tab anything that is checked is starting with Windows. To verify if they are required or not, go to:

http://www.answersthatwork.com/Tasklist_pages/tasklist.htm

http://www.pacs-portal.co.uk/startup_index.htm

Hope this helps!
Lorry