computer problems

[Copespitter]

I have spyware on my computer that I can't get rid of. I downloaded Spybot and ran it but its still there. I think its called "search assistant". Its in my add/remove programs but it won't seem to delete. <br />If I try and do a windows update this program takes over and changes the page along with several pop ups. I think the page says something about "cool search". This program also takes over when I run internet explorer and when I try an e-mail someone by clicking on an e-mail link from a web page.<br />It has screwed up scan disk and there is constant "kernal errors". <br />Any ideas on how to find and delete this thing?<br />Thanks.....

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: computer problems

Spybot should remove "coolsearch" (it does for me).<br /><br />What version of SpyBot did you get? <br /><br />Aldo

 

[Bart Sr.]

Re: computer problems

Copespitter---I went through the same thing a while back.I have Windows ME.I don't know what you have but here goes.<br /><br />After installing SPYBOT and ZONEALARM I went to MY COMPUTER---LOCAL DISC C---PROGRAM FILES and deleted the bad file.I then checked WINDOWS and deleted files pertaining to the bad file.Then went to desktop screen and clicked on START---PROGRAMS and deleted the bad program.My next step was to empty the TRASH BIN.<br /><br />After RESTARTING the computer I was able to delete the bad program from the ADD/DELETE.Then empty the TRASH BIN and all was well.<br /><br />With SPYBOT and ZONEALARM and a well updated NORTON ANTIVIRUS all is well with my PC.<br /><br />GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!

 

[Copespitter]

Re: computer problems

I just downloaded Spybot version 1.3.<br /><br />Bart Sr., I also have ME.<br />I checked the folders like you said and I cannot locate the file. If the file is actually "search assistant" it does not show anywhere except in the add/remove programs.<br />I don't have to good of luck deleting files/folders when I don't know what they are (I've had to use my restore discs to many times because of that). Any ideas what to look for?<br />This program or virus has hijacked my SBC Yahoo e-mail also. I can't e-mail anyone.<br />I'll download Zonealarm also.<br />Thanks for the help.

 

[jajeeper]

Re: computer problems

Usually we will run both Spydot and Adaware. Both have free versions that work well and sometimes it takes running both to get rid of the tough ones.

 

[gsbodine]

Re: computer problems

For really bad infestations, sometimes it takes multiple scans, repairs, and reboots. <br /><br />Also, make sure that you have updated your Spybot and other programs, including the recent hotfixes for Windows, if you can.

 

[Kilroy]

Re: computer problems

Copespitter:<br /><br />jajeeper is right, make sure you download BOTH Spybot 1.3 and Adaware SE. Update both of the apps., then run them both, doesn't matter which one you run first. Each of them will catch something that the other misses, not a slag on either product, they're both good. Also, download something called CWShredder, close your browser and run it. This will fix a variety of hijacks. Good luck!

 

[Kilroy]

Re: computer problems

I just re-read Cope and Bart's messages and missed something. You're both running Windows ME?!! God and Poseidon help you. Time for an upgrade. Not trying to thread-crap or flame anyone, it's just something I would strongly recommend...

 

[roscoe]

Re: computer problems

Kilroy, What os would you suggest, for a system that can't run xp??

 

[Copespitter]

Re: computer problems

I thought I had the problem fixed so I went to the Microsoft update page and downloaded a ton of updates. When I restarted the computer none of my programs would work. I ran the recovery discs and would almost get through the second disc and an error would come up. I tried and retried but couldn't get the second disc to complete. <br />I took my pc to a friend that had an XP disc and the computer took it.<br />I just got back online today.<br />Now I have to figure out XP.<br />Thanks for the help.

 

[Kilroy]

Re: computer problems

Cope:<br /><br />Geez, you gotta love M$...<br /><br />Roscoe:<br /><br />Can you give me the specs on the computer in question?

 

[waterdogguy]

Re: computer problems

Try downloading CWShredder. <br /> CW Shredder