i have learned a few things from you DR M
Only a few????
You are very welcome, Crystal, and as I already said, I wish things were different for you.
Since the computer was infected, I have to close this topic with some useful information about your computer's safety from now on. Some of the following, are from
Klein's (2005) article, So how did I get infected in the first place. Since then, the article has been reproduced or linked to in dozens of locations. As a result, many malware experts have continued updating it, to include current operating systems and software program information. My source is
Security Garden, and I marked for you the following:
1. Keep your Windows updated!
It is important always to keep current with the latest security fixes from Microsoft. This can patch many of the security holes through which attackers can infect your computer.
2. Update 3rd Party Software Programs
Third Party software programs have long been targets for malware creators. It has been stated that
"Adobe’s Reader and Flash and all versions of Java are together responsible for a total of 66 percent of the vulnerabilities in Windows systems exploited by malware.'' It's important to keep everything updated.
3. Update the browsers you use
Many malware infections install themselves by exploiting security holes in the Internet browser that you use. So... Keep them updated.
4. Be careful about what you download and what you open!
- Many "freeware" programs come with an enormous amount of bundled spyware that will slow down your system, spawn pop-up advertisements, or just plain crash your browser or even Windows itself. Watch for pre-checked options such as toolbars that are not essential to the operation of the installed software.
- Peer-to-peer (P2P) programs like Kazaa, BearShare, Imesh, Warez P2P, and others, allow the creation of a network enabling people to connect with other users and upload or download material in a fast efficient manner. BUT even if the P2P software you are using is "clean", a large percentage of the files served on the P2P network are likely to be infected.
- Cracked or pirated programs are not only illegal, but also can make your computer a malware target. Have this in mind.
- Do not open any files without being certain of what they are!
5. Avoid questionable web sites!
Visit web sites that are trustworthy and reputable. Many disreputable sites will attempt to install malware on your system through "drive-by" exploits just by visiting the site in your browser. Lyrics sites, free software sites (especially ones that target young children), cracked software sites, and pornography sites are some of the worst offenders. Also, never give out personal information of any sort online or click "OK" to a pop-up unless it is signed by a reputable company and you know what it is.
6. Registry cleaners/driver boosters/system optimizers
I do not recommend registry cleaners, system optimizers, driver boosters and the like. It is your computer and certainly your choice. However, please consider that modifying registry keys incorrectly can cause Windows instability, or make Windows unbootable. With registry cleaner and system optimization software programs, the potential is ever present to cause more problems than they claim to fix. Do note, however, that Microsoft does not support the use of registry cleaners. See
Microsoft support policy for the use of registry cleaning utilities.
7. PC means personal computer!
Don't give access to your computer to friends or family who appear to be clueless about what they are doing.
8. Back-up your work!
Make back-ups of your personal files frequently. You never know when you'll have to reformat and start from scratch. You can always reformat and reinstall programs, but you cannot replace your data if you haven't made backups.
9. Must-Have Software
An anti-virus and an anti-spyware program is a necessity for the security of your computer. Be sure that you keep them updated, and that real time protection is enabled.
If you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to ask.
