Over the last couple of days while gathering, out of no where, pop-ups were popping all over my screen while I was reading or commenting on my connections articles. It started out as starware.com ads, then it progressed to ads that asked me to download the latest spyware antivirus to protect my computer. It stated that I may have a virus. Although I am not a computer programmer, I'm computer savvy enough to know not to download anything from spyware.
Yesterday my computer began slowing down and the pop-ups became more severe. I went to internet options and placed my pop-up blocker on high alert and removed all detected pop-ups. However, this did not stop them. I also noticed that everytime I came back on the internet, Starware would be back.
Ok, now I was getting really perturbed. Finally, while at home this AM, I tried again to connect to Gather. This time I could not connect to any servers. Nothing Natta. I tried Stephenking.com, writers digest.com, HBO.com, etc. Every time I googled, I was let down.
Yes, I know, as upsetting as it is to write, My laptop at home is infected with a Virus and I'm angry as all hell! I ran my antivirus program, and twice it stated I was not infected. Yeah right!!! On the third try it found one, calling it a Trojan Horse. I never saw it coming!!
My question to all, HHHHHHHHHHHEEEEEEELLLLLPPPPPP! I'm at work right now since my office PC is the only way I will be able to Gather for the time being. Are they any quick solutions or do I need to pay for the professionals to come in? I tried to repair with my Antivirus program, but I've not been successful. Could this all have started from Yahoo Instant Messenger? It was set up two weeks ago by a certain family member, who will remain anonymous at this moment!!!
Any suggestions please let me know. Thanks!!!
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Comments: 42
That's all I can say.
Another thing I've done is gone to control panel-add or remove programs, and look at what's there. If there are search programs, toolbars, or other programs that you've never downloaded, remove them. Just be careful not to remove something you use or need like Windows.
Jill, thanks for the info. It ried that but no luck. I'm in trouble aren't I?
I just wanted to say hi.
Hi.
If you can restore to a previous point and can get on the internet, do the scan from Symantec. If not, update me to let me know what you did.
Honestly, don't get upset. Your laptop is not physically damaged. (If you are describing it to me properly.) If it is only a virus...not a ton of them, etc. plus spywares...there are ways to fix it.
I have had to do a system restore on my old computer and it did the trick.
it finally collapsed and i reckon it was from MSN messenger at the time. my ten year old nephew sent me a file and that was the end of the computer. LOL
See you soon
You may have originally been infected with 'spyware' or 'adware', which then led to a virus, or trojan horse being added later.
I would suggest disconnecting your computer from the internet, or turning off your wireless transmitter (if you have one). Then open up your browser. Once your browser has opened, access the options or settings and ensure your pop-up blocker is still active. Also, remove all cookies.
Turn on your modem or transmitter and attempt to access the internet again. This time, go to the sites listed in the article I link to below. Download the free software, install, and run each program as specified in the article. You may also try using a different web browser temporarily.
It might be beneficial to install and run only one of anti-spyware programs first. This may reduce your problem, and allow you to continue running the remaining software.
If you have any problems, please send me a mail message (when you can).
Good Luck!
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Make your PC run like new ...for FREE! - See how HERE.
Looks like JF and Kevin have given you good help Charles, but if you want or need to, post or mail me.
to help with things like this
and by now, you've got
it fixed, I'm sure.