Computer Security & Viruses/Remove these programs!

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Question
Ihave "windows xp" and I am having trouble removing these programs from my computer: "error cleaner," "privacy protector," and "spyware & malware protection."  I don't know how they got on my computer but I need help to remove them. It has also taken over my "desktop background" also. I tried to remove them by going to "add/remove programs" but could not find it listed.

Answer
Hi Russell

Please download TrendMicro HijackThis! from the following link:
http://www.trendsecure.com/portal/en-US/threat_analytics/HJTInstall.exe
* Save HJTInstall.exe to your desktop.
* Doubleclick on the HJTInstall.exe icon on your desktop.
* By default it will install to C:\Program Files\Trend Micro\HijackThis.
* Click on Install.
* It will create a HijackThis icon on the desktop.
* Once installed, it will launch Hijackthis.
* Click on the Do a system scan and save a logfile button. It will scan and the log should open in notepad.
* Click on "Edit > Select All" then click on "Edit > Copy" and Paste the entire contents of the log (no attachments) into a follow-up here.

I will analyze the log and respond with removal instructions.

Brian

Computer Security & Viruses

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Brian Benosky

Expertise

I will help you in eradicating malware and all forms of virus/trojans/adware. I can answer all PC-related hardware issues. I can also troubleshoot Windows OS errors (all versions) and other software problems. HijackThis logs are a MUST for virus related help. If you do not know how to do this, I have posted easy-to-follow instructions on the Ask a Question page. Every computer infection is different, so I will give you personal instructions on how to remove the malware, not a 'pat' answer. You can be assured of a prompt, polite, and knowledgeable response in all regards.

Experience

I have over 25 years experience in using, building, and repairing computers. I have helped over two thousand people here on AllExperts, with consistent Top Feedback Scores. Please look at my answers here: http://en.allexperts.com/q/Computer-Security-Viruses-1737/indexExp_84308.htm I am also a Top Contributor of General Computing answers in Yahoo! Questions.

Education/Credentials
College Educated Self-taught Computer Skills

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