Spyware? Virus?

frugalpam

Just hoping someone can help! I recently discovered a Trojan on my laptop after doing a spyware scan. I've been able to get rid of it, but have now got a problem when I try to click on a link on Google search results pages: when I click on the links, the page is redirected to one of a variety of search pages, rather than the link I want to go to - hope that makes sense. Is it likely to be a virus on the computer, or spyware that my present programme isn't picking up? Any advice much appreciated!Edited to add: this problem only happens on Internet Explorer, not on Firefox

GunJack

sounds like a browser hijacker...run your entire security suite and some of the online ones, see what they uncover. You should pick up anything nasty with a full-on security assault !!

frugalpam

Hadn't thought of that - I'll give it a go. Thank you!

frugalpam

Just an update.....Another Trojan found its way onto my computer, and Norton could neither quarantine or delete it !! My computer slowed down to a halt and then crashed, losing all data. I've had to reformat and reinstall everything, get a better anti virus programme and spyware blocker. Just a warning to all to make your sure your protection is up to date and thorough - and to do regular back ups (which fortunately I had done, to save important data)

GunJack

frugal - sorry to hear that. Just out of interest what security suite were you using ??

for reference I use:

1. Windows firewall (I know, I know, but so far so good)
2. AVG free anti-virus
3. spyware doctor free
4. spybot S&D
5. windows defender

and have managed to avoid anything nasty. Also use online scanners very infrequently if I suspect something and want to double-check. Have never liked/trusted norton or Mcafee....

frugalpam

Hi Jack - I was using Norton Security suite - didn't stop the Trojan getting through :mad:
I'm now using a really good spyware detector called A squared in addition to new virus protection (Judderman62 recommended it to me) - incredible what this programme can dig out and remove :T http://www.emsisoft.com/en/software/free/

Pam

fwor

Also, to refer to some measures which don't seem to be mentioned much, but are probably as important as anti-virus, anti-spyware, etc:

1. Keep Windows (or any other OS) patched and fully up to date
2. If you must use Internet Explorer, set your Internet zone to High Security, or change the security settings manually to disable active content like ActiveX
3. If you can, use an alternative browser like Firefox with the NoScript add-in enabled, and keep it up to date with latest releases

It takes a bit of getting used to adding sites that you trust to your "Trusted Zone", but once done you get much more control over what websites can do to your PC.

frugalpam

Good points, fwor. I use Firefox - much prefer it over IE. Thanks for the suggestions.

pchelpman

Pam ... sorry to hear of your disaster but glad you have it all fixed now.

These may be useful to help keep you safe ... some New Year's reading with tips .....

If you are certain you have no more trouble you should clear out all old System Restore points then immediately create a new one so you have something to fall back on should anything go awry again. Also remember to make SR points on a regular basis.

More on System Restore ...
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/getstarted/ballew_03may19.mspx

What may have lead up to your infection and help keep your computer free of malware …

http://www.castlecops.com/t7736-So_how_did_I_get_infected_in_the_first_place.html

http://www.help2go.com/Tutorials/Protect_Your_PC/Avoid_Web_Browser_Hijackers.html

http://www.techsupportforum.com/security-center/general-computer-security/115548-pc-safety-security-what-do-i-need.html

There is a little duplication/crossover but all these tutorials are well worth reading.

Make sure you only ever have ONE antivirus and ONE firewall in operation at any time and also make sure they are kept fully up to date.

Don’t forget to keep AVG Anti Spyware / Superantispyware updated and use it to scan/disinfect your computer from time to time.

If you do suffer an infection again you should run first Ccleaner to clean out your system. Get Ccleaner here but ensure you install it WITHOUT the optional Yahoo Toolbar download (untick/uncheck the bottom box of the “install” options after downloading) …

http://www.ccleaner.com/


Also run through this if you hit trouble again ....
http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=133269 [first 4 posts only]

Best wishes.

PCH