[sjb007]

Are you not able to hook up your computer directly to the router for the scan?

[mbonwick]

Not really, as that involves 20 feet of ethernet cable right along and across the hallway...it's bad enough jsut for 5 min while I'm configuring the router!

Latest SUPER log:
SUPERAntiSpyware Scan Log
http://www.superantispyware.com

Generated 08/12/2009 at 02:13 AM

Application Version : 4.27.1002

Core Rules Database Version : 4049
Trace Rules Database Version: 1989

Scan type : Complete Scan
Total Scan Time : 04:03:24

Memory items scanned : 757
Memory threats detected : 0
Registry items scanned : 9300
Registry threats detected : 0
File items scanned : 55005
File threats detected : 0

[sjb007]

Without an onlince scan I cannot guarantee you are 100% clear, but as you appear free from malware and you are happy at your systems perfomance once again then I am happy to conclude this post

The following will uninstall combofix and implement some cleanup procedures as well as reset System Restore points:

Windows XP Users: Click Start > Select Run and copy/paste the following bolded text below into the Run box and click OK:

Windows Vista Users: Press the Windows key and r to brin up the run dialogue, copy and paste the text below into the run box and click OK:

ComboFix /u

Update windows on a regular basis - If you do not have automatic updates enabled then visit Microsoft's Update Page and update your computer from there.

Update your virus checker on a regular basis - It is no use having a virus checker with out of date definitions.
Keep an eye on your firewall. check what it wants to allow, do not simply allow everything, If there is any processes that you are unsure of then dont be afraid to ask for advice. For more information on firewalls read this article here

Safer Browsing
Use software such as Web of Trust to help you stay away from unsuspecting sites that have malicious purposes.
Use Spywareblaster to help prevent the installation of unwanted BHO's (Browser Helper Objects)

Use an alternative browser
Other browsers tend to be more secure than IE as they do not make use of active x objects, active x objects can be used by spyware as an infection point on your computer. Safer non active x browsers include Opera browser and, more recently, Firefox browser.

NB: Please note that although your browser may be more secure without active x it will not throw a ring of steel around your computer. If you purposly visit sites that are dubious in nature then infection will prevail.

Computer Maintenance
Malware can breed in temporary locations. Use a program such as ccleaner slim to clear out temporary files your computer on a regular basis.

Scan your computer regularly for malware
Scan on a regular basis to keep your computer clean, free software such as Spybot's Search & Destroy can help you stay clear. Other alternative software that runs under licience and monitors your computer continuously in the background for malware is Malwarebytes Anti-Malware (MBAM) and SUPERAntiSpyware- Please note that these products can also be run as free without a licience as a scan on demand scanner.

Secure your router
Change your routers default username and password, do not leave it at factory preset, doing so makes it easy for unauthorised access.

Encrypt your network. Set your wireless network encryption to a minimum level of WPA-PSK [TKIP]. This will help prevent any unauthorised users "piggybacking" onto your network and stealing your bandwidth which you have rightly paid for.

I have included some security related articles that I advise you read through in your own time. These articles will give you tips and advice on preveting malware, and how to stay safe whilst browsing the internet.

-> So How Did I Get Infected In First Place - By TonyKlein
-> How to prevent Malware - By miekiemoes
-> I'm not pulling your leg, honest - By Sandi Hardmeie

**Kindly respond one more time and let me know if we may consider this thread resolved.

[mbonwick]

For the moment we can consider this resolved, I will try to do an online scan ASAP and if it throws up anything I can's deal with I shall post back.

You'll be pleased to know that I've followed all the advice in your post that I hadn't done already, IE. installing Spyware Blaster.

[sjb007]

Glad to hear things are better. As you mentioned - if the scan throws anyting up post right back.

Good luck and happy safe surfing

[mbonwick]

Just to let you know,

I ran the Panda scan, and the only "problems" it found were well documented false-positives.
Certainly looks like verything is back to normal - once again, thanks for the assistance.

[sjb007]

Only too glad to help