Virus - Can't Run Programs

Thanks for the instructions...you've been most helpful...however, of course, I dont' have the original XP installation CD, as HP loads that all on your computer before you get it...so, I suppose I'm stuck purchasing THAT from them, too, just like the recovery cd's...guess I'll get back on the chat with them and see what they say...any other way to get the XP installation disc?
Thanks again!
Barb

 

No unfortunately as many OEM installers do, but are changing, they usually give you the same disks as they use for install. But if you pressure them they may give you the 'stand alone' disk, with just XP and none of the 'extras'. good luck with that.

 

OK for now...

Just wanted to let you know that I finally had the time and inclination to deal with doing the System Recovery to fix my problems...got the "workaround" instructions from HP to manually start the recovery discs...everything is hunky-dory for now, however I am leary...since this worm ate up my AVG the last time, I am afraid of that happening again...I have downloaded and installed AVG Anti-Virus & AVG Anti-Spyware, SpyBot, Spyware Guard, Spyware Blaster, and Adaware...is there anything else I should have on board? We use Mail Washer so as not to open any emails that might be junk or bad news...is there anything better? I sure don't want to go through this again!! YOIKS!! Thanks again for all your help...it has been a marathon day of wiping the hard drive, reinstalling everything, and downloading all the safety gear...glad it's over for now! Let me know if there is anything else I should be doing.
Thanks!
Barb

 

Glad you got things sorted out, and yeah I can only imagine how bad it was.

In so far as any more protection, just a few more, non-invasive, low resource things I would add:

To avoid known malware infested sites from loading in IE install IESPY ADS.
And MVPS Hosts File will accomplish a similar tactic and provide another layer of protection.

And to prevent unknown applications from being inserted to start up on your machine install WinPatrol v10.5.0.

Another thing I would suggest, is to install SiteAdvisor. It gives sites a few different 'ratings' and while not fool proof, a good additional layer of information about many sites.

Implementing those things and combined with a more 'heads up' approach to surfing, I think you will be fine.

Good luck.