Malware/Spyware Removal Guide

Fran

Thanks, I've added that link to Internet Security! Viruses! (found under FAQ's at the top of this board).

sanwag

Chippy_Minton wrote:

Another useful guide: Dealing with Unwanted Spyware and Parasites.

Please help, ive been infected, malaware, pests, spyware, tried to follow links but not that techie... found 493 items, is there a free program to remove them, and an idiots guide to do this...? this is bad...

Chippy_Minton

sanwag wrote:

Please help, ive been infected, malaware, pests, spyware, tried to follow links but not that techie... found 493 items, is there a free program to remove them, and an idiots guide to do this...? this is bad...

I'm afraid there's no magic wand to eradicate scumware. With a bit of effort and a step-by-step approach, you should be able to get rid of most if not all of these pests. The idiots guide starts on page 1 of this thread so please start following that and start a new thread if you get stuck - there are people on this board who'll be able to help you.

Dibz_2

As I was going through the steps (I got to number 4), when I click on the link for Microsoft Anti-Spyware, it comes up with a page displaying this: 'The download you requested is unavailable. If you continue to see this message when trying to access this download, go to the "Search for a Download" area on the Download Center home page. '

Anyone know how to get this?
I've searched for it and it's come up with Windows Defender (Beta 2) and Windows Defender (Beta 2) x 64. Are these the same thing?

Thanks x

Fran

Yes it sounds like it is. Windows Defender (beta2) as it says "Meet the new features in Microsoft's free antispyware program." and it says it's an update on Download.com.

Browntoa

I'll update the link

Browntoa

All references to Microsoft AntiSpyware removed and replaced with the new product Windows Defender

tempuscat

I've just had to clean my PC of the pernicious 'Spy Falcon' malware -- stuff that's deliberately designed to bury itself so deep in the system that even when you think the damned thing has gone, System Restore goes ahead and restores it (not wishing to revive the earlier 'restore war', but honestly: the whole point of pernicious malware is to keep on activating itself thanks to the SR workings).

I was surprised SpyFalcon even got through, given the fact this PC is running AVG, ZoneAlarm and Spyware Blaster simultaneously as defensive (rather than diagnostic, after-the-infection) tools, but it did.

But the thought occurred to me, as it must have to others, that scam artists only employ software developers to create this malware so as to rake in a profit -- and that the means of making that profit is very often via international credit card companies like MasterCard and Visa or outfits like PayPal.

Isn't it about time that credit companies who associate with criminal enterprises are penalised in some way? Or am I missing something?

** Whoops: meant to add, one of the most useful websites / forums I've found relating to this topic is www.spywarewarrior.com. Definitely worth recommending here.

AuntyJean

http://www.pacs-portal.co.uk/startup_content.php
http://www.sysinfo.org/

I have followed the instructions to check my startup's as a precaution and thought others may find these website of use.

Dodgybloke

Last night I followed the spyware and malware removal guide on page one of this thread last night. Pleased to report it worked beautifully. I was convinced I would have to format and reinstall to solve the problem. Relieved I didn't have to now.