Expert: James Filmer - 1/19/2010

Question
QUESTION: I am a relative novice running Windows XP. I have a popup from the taskbar that reads: "Click here to protect your computer from spyware! Your compter is infected! Windows has detected an infection of spyware! It is recommended to use special antispyware tools to prevent data loss. Windows will now download and install the most up-to-date antispyware for you".

I also have a warning window popup that says: "Attention! System detected a potential hazard (Trojay SPM/LX) on your computer that may infect executable files. Your private information and PC safety is at risk. To get rid of unwanted spyware and keep your computer safe you need update your current security software. Click OK to download official intrusion detection system (IDS software).

Also, my screen is green.

Malwarebytes has just removed viruses it called Hijack.Taskmanage and Hijack.Displayprop.

Any help you can provide me would be GREATLY appreciated.

Thanks.  Bob

ANSWER: Not sure what you mean by "green" screen. You can't see your icons and your background image is gone?

Don't install, download or click any pop-ups or windows related to the warnings.

There's a lot in the following two posts: http://en.kioskea.net/forum/affich-20833-windows-security-warning-downloading-sp

and, http://community.norton.com/t5/Norton-Internet-Security-Norton/TrojanSPM-LX-Plea

I provide these links to give you some info, but please don't do anything suggested (at least not yet).

You said you ran Malwarebytes and removed all threats. Did you restart your computer and the pop-ups returned? Did you turn off System restore, then run Malwarebytes?
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310405

Also, what anti-virus and Firewall programs are you using and do you use any other anti-spyware software?





---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: James,
Thanks for your input but I am going to pay someone local to come and fix the problem; I'm too concerned that I'll do something wrong and cause myself more grief.

I am wondering why my Ad Aware SE did not block the virus.

Thanks for your help.

Bob

Answer
HI Bob,

Whatever you feel comfortable with, but I'm sure we'd be successful (privately if you wanted).

In opinion, every computer owner should have some basic computer security and maintenance knowledge to fix and prevent further problems.

For instance, Ad Aware doesn't block, detect or remove viruses  - it detects ad-ware http://technology.solveyourproblem.com/internet-security/what_adware_does_to_com

It might take some reading time, and may not be enjoyable (smile), but with the proper guidance, you can really do a lot yourself, if not now, maybe in the future.