Win XP - how to rid virus

Alfonso_Skinarelli

You won't be able to install SP1 if you don't have a legit Operating System so you really are in a mess. As I said a few posts ago, without the Service Packs you're a sitting duck and and a magnet for malware. There really isn't much point in fixing your machine it pains me to say. The best course of action for both your own online safety and the safety of all others using the net is to format and reinstall W98 (if you have the original installation disk) until you can afford to purchase a legit copy of XP. You can get XP Home OEM from eBuyer for less than £50 ex VAT.

You can however help the anti-spyware community fight the ever changing face of the Alcan worm by submitting the two files below to the TheSpyKiller website for analysis. No registration required, just go to the UPLOADS forum.


C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\msconfig.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\taskmgr.exe

Mark the thread for the attention of "Metallica" if you decide to help out.

Good luck!!

Jazzycat

Alfonso - how do I format to re-intsall win98? I have full original system.

Once done what would be your advise to set up on my pc to protect it (virus, firewall etc).

I hope to get XP as soon as is possible, but need some more cash before I can afford £60.

Alfonso_Skinarelli

Have a look at this: Reinstall Windows 98 Tutorial.

Make sure you completely wipe the hard drive clean before reinstalling 98 again.

And this once reinstalled: How can I protect myself on the Internet?

When you reinstalled you'll need to go to Windows Update immediately and patch the Operating System. There will be about 35-40 Critical Updates available so you'll need to go back a few times to get them all (some require individual installation).

Are you able to upload those malicious files for me?

Jazzycat

thanks for that.

I'll post the files to your link tonight.

Can you explain to me though what doing this will do and how it could help others?

Alfonso_Skinarelli

The Alcan worm is one of the most prevelant infections of 2006. A spyware Expert who goes by the name of Metallica has made a removal tool for this worm which needs constantly updating as and when new variants appear. You have what looks like a new variant so by uploading the files he can analyse them and add them to the list of files removed by his free removal tool.

Jazzycat

alfonso - just posted files.

thanks for your advice

Alfonso_Skinarelli

You're welcome and thanks for uploading the files.