So this is my latest bout vs. spyware, malware, virus, spyware or what have you:

I was on google and i clicked on the very first link atop my search (searching Hlaska). Upon clicking, everything seemed to freeze up. Next thing i know, i have some "anti-virus" that is disguised as a real windows anti-virus telling me that i have been hacked, multiple threats, blah-blah-blah.

It won't go away. I have full control of my PC, but this damn thing keeps popping up. I searched "XP Anti-Virus 2011" and found multiple sources citing Spyware doctor as a reputable program to remove the malware. I downloaded the program, it detected the issues, but it won't remove them until i purchase the full version!?! Did the company that produce Spyware Doctor, PC TOOLS, create this malware? What the hell...i don't know what to do. Please help.

I usually run Malwarebyte's Anti-Malware, but since the problem arised, i cannot even open up the program.

Any advice?

 

Safe mode

 

safe mode.

open internet options. under connection type disable the proxy server address. on the object controls, trash the cookies/java/apps causing it.

 

safe mode...delete the app causing it...install a anti virus program then run it

 

thanks for the input guys! Big thanks to Johndabrit...helped me out a bunch.

 

i actually just got the same virus 2 days ago.

follow the instructions in this video to get rid of it:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMVSH4XII3s

 

I used to work for PC Tools about a year ago. PC Tools is actually a subsidiary of Symantec.

PC Tools did not create the malware.

They pay a lot of advertising so when you do a search on Google, their name is on the top of the search results.

 

I tried Spyware doctor...it didn't work. It required me to buy the full version to remove the infections. I downloaded super anti-spyware, was able to run it, it cleaned up the problems. All previous threats are clear now.

New problem now though...i can't start any programs up. For example if i try to open up Malwarebyte's anti-malware, it prompts me to choose a program to open the file. I tried to go to control panel>internet options>Lan settings and uncheck the first box but the "rundll.exe was not found".

 

It appears that you got a file association error. It's been a while and forgot how to fix it. If you google "file assocation" and the OS that you're runnning, there should be a bunch of solutions.

 

so basically if i want to open up a program, i have to browse for the program i want to open, instead of just clicking on the desktop icon.

 

have you tried doing a system restore?

 

1. take out HD

2. connect HD to a known "CLEAN" machine.

3. use MS SECURITY ESSENTIALS to clean HD

4. return HD to original machine.

5. install MS SECURITY ESSENTIALS on infected machine.

6. rescan infected machine.


problem solved.

btw, you can buy a $20-25 device from FRYS that connect just about any HD and makes it into a USB connection. i just finished cleaning my cousin's kid's machine tonite with this exact procedure...

 

malwarebytes

 

I got the "white smoke" virus a couple of weeks ago, and now I can't even log into my computer in safe mode lol. Was on lenovo forums trying to get help and they suggested I work one on one with some pros at some other forum, just haven't had a chance. so annoying.

 

+1 except you can use any good virus scan/anti-spyware.

Do NOT open anything on the infected HD before/while scanning either.