Expert: Lorry - 5/10/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi. This "Securtiy Tool" decided to put itself on my computer. It want's $49.95 to get rid of all the so-called viruses.
I know better than to pay them.
But how do I get rid of it?
I tried Malwarebytes but all it did was to re- start my computer and I still have the same problem.
I went to this place on the internet called "Windows Vista Repair" and that didn't get rid of it.

please help me!

ANSWER: Hi Joyce,

You mentioned Malwarebytes, did you update it first? Version 1.45 should remove it.

Using Internet Explorer, go to:

http://security.symantec.com/sscv6/WelcomePage.asp

Click on Continue to Symantec Security Check. Under Virus Detection, click Start, accept the End-User Agreement. It will ask you a few times to permission to install Active X Controls, answer yes. Once you see that the program is actually scanning, leave the computer alone until the scan is finished.

Once the scan is done, 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.

Hope this helps!
Lorry


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

QUESTION: Thanks. Is there a way to stop those things from putting themselves on my computer to begin with? I know there probably isn't, but I thought I'd ask anyway.

Answer
Hi Joyce,

Your best bet is to install an anti-virus program, keep it up to date and run a virus scan once a week. Install a firewall program, for example ZoneAlarm, which is free and available from:

http://download.cnet.com/ZoneAlarm/3000-10435_4-10039884.html

Update and run Malwarebytes every other week.

Hope this helps!
Lorry