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How To Remove Antivirus Pro 2009 VIRUS from your Computer

How do I get rid of the Antivirus Pro 2009 Virus?

Those are the exact words I Googled when I found out we had been infected by the virus on our home network last Friday night. Three days later, I'm here to tell you, BEWARE, WARNING, DANGER, CAUTION!

If you are reading this post, and you have been infected with the Antivirus Pro 2009 Malware Virus, STOP HERE!. This is the ONLY way I have found that will effectively kill and remove this "monster virus" from your PC computer. I've tried every possible site, scanner, bug-fix, free application, and removal instruction, ALL to no avail.

After two days of (real-time) on-line battles with one of the nastiest, most malicious virus, Rogue AntiSpywares out there, today, I finally found the cure, the complete removal and fix.

This virus has many names, and it will usually appear as a pop-up warning in your system tray that tells you "Spyware has been detected on your computer", then it coaxes you to run their program to remove it. DON'T DO IT! Do NOT click on that pop-up bubble or the warning that appears. Not even Norton was able to detect this one sneaking onto our home network. Not knowing, my wife made the mistake of clicking on it.

Here is the known Danger level on a scale from 1 to 10.

It is so bad, that as fast as people are posting instructions and creating solutions to fix it, AVP2009 goes into your computer, and disables all the tools and applications that are created to kill it. This is no joke! Katerina Gasset had the same virus, but with a different name, and now even her instructions won't work. This is one of the worse virus's I have ever had to tackle.

I spent hours researching this so you won't have to.

Click here to find out more about the Antivirus Pro 2009

Look what others have to say about it

Hundreds of computer users looking for solutions

Yahoo Answers solutions won't even work

How Do You Get Infected with It?

There are many ways your computer could get infected with Antivirus Pro 2009. It can come bundled and hidden with shareware or other down-loadable software. Maybe watching a video, and a pop-up requires you to download a codec file that has it attached etc. The worst part is that it looks legit.

What can the Antivirus Pro 2009 Virus do if not removed?

According to WidowsVistaPlace.com - "failure to remove Antivirus Pro 2009 results in instant bothering. Effects after Antivirus Pro 2009 presence are not just annoying, they also include upload of various viruses and programs pretending to be useful like either fake registry cleaners or system optimizer and privacy guards. These fake utilities share the same final aim with Antivirus Pro 2009, i.e. they want users to pay for registration. The last but not least undesirable consequences of Antivirus Pro 2009 activities are system disordering and data erasing."

THIS IS ONE SCREEN TO AVOID AT ALL COSTS! THIS PROGRAM WILL COMPROMISE YOUR SECURITY. IT CAN SEE YOUR PASSWORDS, LOGINS, ACCOUNT NUMBERS, ANYTHING YOU TYPE OR ANYWHERE YOU GO!

Here's The Solution I Found after Numerous Calls, Reading, and Research.

I'm not going to post the exact instructions, as it will only aid the creators in developing yet another way to prevent you from fixing your computer. Instead, Here is the solution, it's the only company and application I found that could do the job! They are the real deal. Malwarebytes.com. I'd also add AVG antivirus before or after.

They had to remotely access my system, run it in safe mode, run various scans, apps and cleaners, rename and remove files, reboot multiple times etc. Even as an experienced (protected) PC user, I still couldn't have done it without their help. This could happen to anybody, don't think it can't happen to you.

This is a sure fire, guaranteed way to defeat this virus. It's a nightmare, I hope this post will help you if you're a victim, or heighten your awareness if you're a target. What's scary is, as fast as people are posting instructions and apps, this virus is finding ways to disable them, and doing it on your computer. It's that bad. Contact me if you need more details, I won't post them here because I know how this virus, and its owners work now. It's really very disturbing. Watch out for the Anti-Malware apps that say they can remove it as well, they are in fact Rogue Malware applications themselves. If in doubt, just call me, I will walk you thru this process right over the phone. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn ~ Community Builder on 12/02/2008 10:08 AM

Comments (161)

Antivirus Pro 2009 in the Technology and Tools Channel

antivirus pro 2009, virus alert, virus, malwarebot, spyware, antispyware, technical support

Originally posted at: Real Estate 2.0 Technology : How To Remove Antivirus Pro 2009 VIRUS from your Computer

Post is included in group: Realtors®
Post is included in group: Real Estate Technology
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161 Comments on How To Remove Antivirus Pro 2009 VIRUS from your Computer

DEC

I may be going to 100% fulltime MAC here real soon!! :-)

You and me both! Now I feel bad I was contacting you about my RES problems! As always, you were gracious and got things done. Many thanks. Meet you at the Apple store.

Brad: How does one know that they even have this virus in the first place ? You make it sound so horrible... how can I know if it is on my computer ? Thanks a bunch.

Thanks for the warning, Brad - sounds like all of us (except Mac folk) need to be a little more aware of what's going on the minds of our computers. :) - I'll check back and see if you update w/answers to above questions. - Calie

I haven't heard of anyone else getting it. I am running Kaspersky and have found it to be pretty good at keeping out the nasty stuff.

This is the first sign of the virus:

...it will usually appear as a pop-up warning in your system tray that tells you "Spyware has been detected on your computer", then it coaxes you to run their program to remove it. DON'T DO IT! Do NOT click on that pop-up bubble or the warning that appears.

Then...

Antivirus Pro 2009 displays a fake system alert similar to a Windows notification message.
A red or green flashing icon appears in your system tray. If you click on the icon, a fake system alert pops up and directs you to a rogue website similar to safetyuptodate.com. In some cases, even when you don’t click on the icon the fake system alert may still pop up.
The fake system alert promises to give you a legitimate anti-spyware program that will help you fix spyware problems, but instead it really reports false information to try to trick you into purchasing the program.
Antivirus Pro 2009 hijacks or modifies your homepage and displays new desktop shortcuts.
Antivirus Pro 2009 changes your default homepage to a different homepage and creates new unnecessary shortcuts on your desktop. Sometimes Antivirus Pro 2009 won’t even allow you to change it back to your original homepage. A website you may be redirected to is Antivirus Pro 2009.com or other rogue websites that promote Antivirus Pro 2009.
Antivirus Pro 2009 installs a rogue toolbar called Security Toolbar 7.1.
Security toolbar 7.1 is a rogue toolbar that comes with two green bars, one that says “block adware” and the other “remove spyware”. If you click on either of them you’re directed to a rogue anti-spyware site which can install additional malware.
Antivirus Pro 2009 bombards your PC with fake Windows warnings messages.
Even after you’ve closed all the Antivirus Pro 2009 messages or your PC has been idle for awhile, you’ll still get constant alert popups appearing on your system tray or on your screen.

Brad,

Thank you sir, it is always good to be aware of these potential problems and who you can go to to get help.

I had this start up on my desktop a few days ago. I thought I caught it and got it gone. Now im worried I didnt. Thanks!

Sorry to hear you've had to deal with this, Brad.

Brad - I don't think I have it, but now I know what to do if I get it. Thank you! :)

WELL, that explains why my main computer is in the shop.

My computer was infected sometime on the 27th about 10:00 a.m.

I'll send this info to Computer Connection, my computer guru who was here on Friday when we spoke. This is clearly no coincidence. The problems with my computer mimic your description.

Thanks.

Lenn

Wow Brad: Even though my comment and question came at 3:30am Tuesday MORNING... you had it answered and commented on within 52 minutes. Question: Do you have a laptop stuffed inside your pillow with an alarm attached to it ? LOL. Thanks for your promptness.

Also... another question. Why do these dum dums go through the trouble of inventing these things ? Just to mess with us ? Do they get some sort of high from sitting in their cubicles... just giggling about all the trouble they are causing ? Or is there more to it ? Thanks again.

Thanks, Brad! Appreciate your major investment in time and headache to help save the AR Universe!

You saved my butt - because I saw this the other day on my wife's computer, and she almost clicked on it!

Still no shortage of morons in this world. Wouldn't you think these hackers would have something better to do with their time?

DEAN & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

I had this pop up just the other day (and a few times in the past). What makes it worse is that once the pop up comes up, there is no "X" out box to close the window ~ so you almost have to click "okay". Which of course is followed with the "authentic" looking windows page.

I'm glad I have a Mac.

I don't do Windows, but even I've heard about this nasty virus for many months - I'm amazed that people are not aware of it. I don't do Windows at all, so I know nothing about viruses, never had a virus, nor ever had anti virus software in 26 years. But that virus is pretty famous because it will kill your computer.

Most of what I've heard (from nationally known experts) is that this virus can NOT be completely removed. If you get it, you must clean your disk completely and reinstall Windows from a good known source disc. Many companies can make you 'think' it's been removed completely, but evidently still lingers and will do damage in the future.

Just another reason to get a Mac. Why people don't understand this is beyond me...! Who needs this virus crap?

Brad-- Going Mac WILL NOT help you. It is a myth that they are more secure. There arent as many viruses prevelant on a Mac because fewer people use them so makers go after more bang for their buck so to speak.

One thing could have prevented this and that is a more secure anti-virus program.

Go to this site http://www.av-comparatives.org/ It is the only AV comparison site in the world and they do a great job.

That site does rate norton highly but I think the problem is there is a gap between when a virus is identified in the wild and when it is incorporated into the programs. Norton has failed me before and therefore I dont use that product. Currently Avira and Eset Nod32 are rated very highly. I have used both. It is crucial that you have a proactive defense and that it can detect ahead of the curve.

Here is a new article about the subject. http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20081130-av-programs-unreliable-during-critical-coverage-gap.html

I will try to write something up on it later. I have had some very tough times with viruses in the past but since I have switched products I have never been close to being infected. You simply cant with using those products I mentioned. Norton is not as fast in my experience. They have most certainly improved but even just last year they were rated as one of the worst AV programs and yet are the most popular. Thats not good.

Sorry about the bad luck. If you need help call me I have a lot of experience with Windows and these kinds of issues.

Brad, I had it too, and posted on it How I can save you 9 hours. It was the same deal, a pop up in my tray and when I clicked it on, bam I was hit. This was a while ago and I have since got a new computer. I run FF all the time so rarely get anything although I scan every day.

Regardless this is nasty.

I'll meet you and Karen Anne at the MAC store and we can have a virtual buying experience.....

The only time I use IE is for the MLS, which still doesn't get it. They say it is not in high demand. WE've been interviewing new vendors and only one so far is FF compliant.

Brad thanks for this info. I hope I won't have to deal with it but if I do, I know where to get the needed help.

Sorry you had to go through the ordeal.

Brad, this is similar to a virus I had on my laptop a couple of years ago. I wasn't aware of this one. I've bookmarked this post just in case. Thanks for the heads up.

Brad that is pretty scary stuff. Thanks for taking the time to make this post. I will keep my fingers crossed it doesn't find my computer.

Brad,

It's all a smoke screen into making you think it's good but it's bad...I usually reformat my whole computer every 6 months to a year but try to back up the un infected files....it's the best way to fully cleanse the PC like it was brand new out of the box...then reinstall all the backed up programs with newer versions...its a little time consuming but well worth it ans it's guaranteed. I've been doing it for years and recently had another lap top fully reprogrammed that was so bad with such bad stuff that it wouldn't even go on.

I don't get it either, why do people go through the trouble of making stupid stuff to mess with out computers & lives? Thanks for the info. I will not download anything! KM

Brad - thanks for the warning. Too many times folks are busy and just don't think it through.

If you don't have a certain program installed on your computer and then it puts a pop-up in the middle of your screen telling you that you're infected ... well, that tells me that someone, somewhere is trying to pull a fast one.

I runa very good AV program that has never failed me to date. It scans and updates constantly and, while it may slow the puter down just a tad during a scan, it's been worth every nanosecond I've had to wait.

Hope all gets better for ya! Thanks again!

Hi Brad, Good post. Thanks for sharing this. Keep posting best.

Best - Sash

Brad - If I'm understanding you correctly, we can avoid this by NOT clicking on these warnings??? I hope I do better at avoiding this than the last round of MeMes! LOL

I appreciate all your research. This is serious stuff and you have probably saved many a hard drive.

Susie - don't feel bad, I never mind helping you out when you need it. But If I seemed a tiny bit disgruntled, now you know why... :-) BTW - you won't see me at the Apple store, I already got mine! LOL~

Karen - If I made this virus sound Horrible, I'm sorry, then I didn't do a very good job here... because it's a freaking monster of a NIGHTMARE!! Horrible is just simply too kind. LOL~ I posted the symptoms for you above in a comment, all you have to do is check out those links, or Google the thing and you'll be shocked by the results. I'm just happy it's all over and I have my wife's computer and my life back. :-)

I have removed this from 3 computers - husbands, mine and 1st son. I purchased the Webroot anti-virus and spyware package - I picked it up at Best Buy and it was around $50 for the use of 3 applications. It took just one scan to rid me of the virus. To scan my computer it was just 90 minutes. I had tried to do it myself and said - too many fixes out on the net and went and bought this product after reading it would do the trick. I love this product!

Thanks Brad - I'm bookmarking this just in case. I too was hit with a virus this morning and posted so others may not get it. I'll put the link here, we need all the help we can get with these. Mine started with 4 infected files and now I'm up to 8. Have you used HijackThis, I'm about ready to let them try. Here's the link to what I think originates with YouTube:

New Virus ~ Actns/Swif.T ~ Could be From YouTube

Gee Brad....thanks for scaring me half to death first thing in the morning! No really THANK YOU! and I am truly sorry that you have had to go this horrible ordeal. I guess you have been a victim of training for your fellow AR friends!

Debbie

Oh this looks very nasty! Thanks for the heads up. I'm going pass this link around to my office mates so they can learn about it too.

Calie - yes, just be mindful, the thing looks legit when it shows up. Almost like when Windows says there's an update in the lower right corner of your screen, you know, that little bubble that pops up? It's really easy for someone to think it's a legit program already on their computer and just click on it. JUST DON'T DO IT!

Let me go see if I can find a screen shot of that bubble that pops up, that will probably help folks recognize it if it ever does.... Ok, I'm back. This is what it looks like. There will be a red circle with a white X in it, and this bubble will pop up from it. I hope you never have to see this on your computer, it's a bugger to make go away. It will just keep popping up every 10 seconds...meanwhile, your computer is at total risk.

Aloha Randy - I've only heard of a few of our members getting it, just trying to prevent more from getting it too. If you do know someone that gets it, save them some time, frustration, and hair, send them this post. Could turn 2-3 days into just 2-3 hours of worthwhile work. :-)

Here's just a couple responses I got back from friends on Twitter just moments after I even mentioned it.

Don - thanks, I actually did this so anyone else who googles those same words won't have to keep looking and researching how to get rid of it like I did.

I'm telling ya, I went to over 30 different sites and proposed solutions and none of them worked. I hope this post will save just one person from having to go through that. :-)

BTW Brad when I said earlier about the Mac thing I wasnt joking. Its a complete sham that people go around saying Macs are secure because they arent and if you want further proof heres an official announcement from the horse's mouth.

http://www.dailytech.com/Apple+Tells+Users+Get+a+Mac+Antivirus+Program/article13562.htm

It was just a matter of time but every computer expert has been saying this from the start. You are crazy to not have protection and it is just lame marketing on Apple's part to imply that they are more secure than windows. It is wholly irresponsible and false. So when there is a widespread infestation on Mac's you can blame the marketing guys over there.

Laura - you'll know if you got it still if that little bubble keeps popping up more frequently. There's an image of it 3 comments above this one. If you see that bubble pop up, you're infected and need to take the steps to have it removed. I hope you DID get it already. :-)

Brad~I got this nasty virus too...stayed up until 3AM one night fixing it. Thank GOD we did not click on the link to "fix" the faux problem...what a mess...thanks for the preventative medicine. Hopefully, it will save others.

Marzena - thanks, It wasn't much fun at all. I'm all better now, the wife is happy that her computer is cured, and our computer network security has been restored. Now I auto run the Malwarebot app in the background. Anti-virus software just doesn't pick up malware and spywares like I think it should.

There is another program out there that I've used many times on clients machines that get hijacked and such. I'm a realtor at the moment but still have a networking company that installs servers and workstations along with maintenance.

I've had great luck with a program called Smitfraudfix that has saved me many hours of headaches when nothing else would work. I now use this first and then use other programs afterwards. I believe that one of my clients was hit by this same malware and it was removed by this, but I can't remember for sure as it was a couple of months back.

You can download this for free at http://siri.geekstogo.com/SmitfraudFix.php

Debi - I do hope you don't get it. Make sure you have a good anti-spyware or anti-malware program, along with a good anti-virus software running at all times. This battle on "Computer Terrorism" is like WEB World War III. :-O

Brad .. thanks for sharing all of your research! Uggghhh - I hate viruses! pippa

http://arstechnica.com/journals/apple.ars/2008/12/02/apple-says-several-antivirus-apps-necessary-to-protect-macs

Here is another article just released today discussing how vulnerable Macs are.

Brad if you use a good antivirus program there is no need for any other programs. Most spyware removal tools are in fact spyware! You install it and they in turn install further spyware and are pattererned exactly like the virus you installed above but are packaged as spyware removal tools. There is no such thing basically. I dont know of any security expert that uses a 2nd tool in addition to an AV program. The only thing that spyware tools might remove is semi-malicious cookies but those could be removed simply by emptying your temp IE files and or your cookies or just change your settings so as to not use cookies.

Also there is no program that works to remove and or repair damage caused by viruses. As in I mean there is no all in one fix it tool. Each virus has a specific pattern or patterns of intent depending on its varient and each must be addressed individually. Symantec actually keeps a good library on what each virus does and how specifically to remove it.

The bottom line is that until a virus signature is understood and a signature written to protect from it, there is no protection. If you read the first article I posted above they discuss this gap and how it leaves virtually every pc in the world unprotected during this time. But a good AV program should shorten the gap and 100% protect you from a virus. Simply put this problem is entirely preventable but most likely your AV program was not designed to detect infiltration or was not currently up to date or an even smaller more remote chance that it was during the gap period.

How do you get this bugger? Here's what I found after researching this a bit more last night.

How Did I Get the Antivirus Pro 2009 Virus?

You may be wondering how Antivirus Pro 2009 ended up on your PC. If you’re infected with Antivirus Pro 2009 or other spyware, your system’s and web browser’s security settings may be set too low, you may not follow safe web browsing and email habits, and you may need to regularly use a good anti-spyware application. Unsafe computer behavior that may lead to your PC having Antivirus Pro 2009 includes:

Freeware or Shareware:
Did you download and install shareware or freeware? These low-cost or free software applications may come bundled with spyware, adware, or programs like Antivirus Pro 2009. Sometimes adware is attached to the free software to “pay” developers for the cost of creating the software, and more often spyware is secretly and maliciously attached to free software to harm your computer and steal your personal and financial information.

Peer-to-Peer Software:
Do you use a peer-to-peer (P2P) program or other application with a shared network? When you use these applications, you put your system at risk for unknowingly downloading an infected file, including applications like Antivirus Pro 2009.

Questionable Websites: Did you visit a website that’s of questionable nature? When you visit malicious sites that are fishy and phishy, Trojans, spyware, and adware may be automatically downloaded and installed onto your computer, sometimes including applications like Antivirus Pro 2009.

source: 411-spyware.com

Brad, I just don't know what we would do without all the helpful support on Active Rain. I pity all the poor agents who choose not to participate.

Wow - thanks Brad.

Knock on wood but I have not had much trouble with viruses.

Thank you once again for all of the information that you share with us on a regular basis.

thank you soooo much Brad - I'll be coming back to you post when I get home...my laptop has caught the bug, ugh!

Brad, Thanks sooo much! A while ago I had a problem with a virus that just wouldn't relent but it didn't sound anything like this. I have bookmarked this but really hope I will never need it!

Wow Brad...thanks so much for sharing, and so sorry you had to go through that! Bookmarked..just in case. P.S I'm emailing you off topic:)

Hi Brad. Thank goodness agents have you to help them out! Thank goodness I have my daughter who explained to me this is one of the many reasons she has me use firefox for everything except MLS.

A co-worker in my office had this happen several weeks ago and we tried everything. She ended up installing Norton and working with their tech support. I need to warn my husband to be careful too. Thanks for this tip.

Brad, Where were you last month when I needed you. lol. I not only got the virus, I gave them my credit card and downloaded it. It looked official and my anti-virus was out of date. I tried every anti-virus software to no avail. I finally went out and bought a brand new Mac pro. I didn't realize I was scammed until I bought the Mac. I thought hey maybe I should put this new Anti Virus2009 I bought on my new Mac. I googled it first and found out it was a scam when I discovered the website was a porn site. I had to get a new credit card account also. I finally got rid of it on the old Dell PC but now the keyboard doesn't work.

Thanks for posing this Brad. So far we're clean, but this sounds like a very nasty little bug. I'll definitely bookmark the site in case... and definitely WILL NOT click the little button. Any idea how this is getting on our computers.... email attachments, certain programs, etc? I'm just wondering what programs/sites to avoid.

I knew I was doing something right by ignoring all those pop-ups: good, bad, or otherwise

Thanks for the heads up -- knock on wood we won't need the help -- but it is nice to know there is a solution should it be needed. Thanks much.

Hello Brad - I had other things which I just did a post about yesterday; but I did manage not to fall in the Traip of Anti Virus 2009 - they can't even spell things right.... Gonna to be very careful now a days.

Thanks for the info, I had that pop up come up last night on my family computer. I kept trying to cancel and ignore it but it just kept coming back. I never did open anything though, so maybe I didn't get infected with it. I didn't think it was legitimate!

Thanks for the post, Brad. Sorry to hear about your troubles. Consider this post bookmarked - should I get this virus I will know where to go.

Brad,

Sure sounds like cyber pirating to me!!! Thanks, Fran

As always, I enjoy reading your posts. But, sorry to hear you went through such an ordeal with this nasty virus. I retired as Director of the NOAA IT Security Office, and had created a Computer Incident Response Team that comprised of four highly qualified computer techies. Most of their time was spent on removing viruses for over 15,000 employees and, of course, keeping hackers out of the computer systems. As you know, once a virus or hacker gets into a computer system it is a nightmare. I've gone through plenty, and hopeful will not go through what you did on my home computer. Thanks so much for taking the time to provide the AR community this imporatnt information.

I had it and had to wipe my hard drive to get rid of it.

Thank you Brad for the warning. I'll tell everyone I know about it and be on the lookout myself for it.

But Brad, did you really have to blame your wife for this one?!!!!!!!

"Not knowing, my wife made the mistake of clicking on it."

This may be a stupid question, but where do I look to see if I have it? Thanks

It popped up on my computer last week and as usual, no RED X. The clock started ticking so one of the first things I did was turned off my System Restore option to removed ALL recovery points since the program is nortorious for hiding in that area and mutates itself after you have fix attempted to fix the problem. Then I ran my Bit Defender. It quickly found the culprit and got rid of it. Since my backup was on, I also scanned it for the virus. After running the deep scan twice and all signs of the program was gone, I started a new restore point and did a last scan.Since I am on my computer 16+ hours a day, I run my virus scan 2-3 times per day.

I notice that the Anivirus 2009 is now attaching itself to images and affiliate links on various websites. So be careful when you decide to become an affiliate.

Carolyn Nelson

Brad - I got this bad boy way back in Sept and had a bear of a time getting rid of it. I immediatly went into my registry after trying a McAfee scan which it did not show up in. I started deleting stuff in my registry affiliated with this malware. Then I downloaded a Trojan/Malware remover which immediately took care of it. 1 month free trial. But it kept replicating and coming back. arghh... So eventually after I ran the freeware scanner for malware a few more days, McAfee finally caught up and found it in a scan and deleted it for good. Windows Defender showed it but could not get rid of it either. After many attempts at deleting the registry files associated with it I think I finally got all of it. whew! I don't recommend this aproach to everyone unless your familiar with working on the registry, but I have had much success with getting rid of pesky adware and malware before this way. Just my 2 cents and good luck with it. It was very sneaking in getting onto my system and not an easy one to get rid of. I hope I've gotten all of it now. Bob H.

I have had the same experience for about the past couple of months. I've tried everything even Malwarebytes which is supposed to be good. But I kept coming back. So I backedup all my critical files' zeroed all the sectors on my hard drive, updated mbr( or that's the way I remember the tool on the program, I intend to use all the best antivirus programs now. I have'nt seen that nasty virus in about a week......... And I hope I never do, It has done some real damage to my computer hardware. Lost a couple of harddrives, cdroms, I am going to try your suggestion also till I am absolutely sure it is gone! Thanx!:)

There is only a handful of viruses that can permanently damage hardware. One of which is called the hard drive killer because it causes your hard drive to go to max speed and keep spinning until it breaks. I have never seen another virus capable of anything else. Its simply a software issue. Your parts work fine if you reinstall windows unless they broke from normal wear and tear. I dont know what malware bytes is and I would not trust it. Only use a recognized AV program and do not install any other additional programs.

Brad- thank you so much for the warning! I'm going to email this blog to my friends now and scan my computer. Don't think I have it yet, but I'm going to clean it up just to be sure.

Thanks for all the hard work that you must have put in to do this. I know my friend has the same virus and I will have to have him look at this post to figure it out!

Hi Brad, Yikes !!! Glad you found it and were able to give us a heads-up. Thanks !

I have come accross this virus (and 2008) on dozens of computers at work, or with family and friends, and I have tried every manual removal process I could find on the internet (I can't make myself pay for anything) and I was only able to seemingly remove it once. I wouldn't recommend trying this though, because you are removing .dll files and other potentially important system files on the off chance that you will get them all (you won't). So in every instance, including the time it seemed to be fixed, I have reformatted the computer and created a fresh install, because that is the only way to be sure nothing is still hiding somewhere.

Like everyone else I would like to have a meeting with the maker's of this these ridiculous programs :)

Jacob Hebert - Director of Technology

My girl friend called yesterday with an emergency! She said "Help my computer has 36 viruses! Should I purchase Antivirus 2009?" It took me a minute to figure out it was not 36 viruses but one big pesky VIRUS!

Thank you for your timely solution to her problem!

They come up with such great names for these viruses. I am glad that somebody has taken the time to discover the solution, Thanks again!!

Sorry guys, I had to run and do a radio show real quick, but I'm back to re-engage these comments,

Man, I see quite a few here I really want to respond to, but I'll just have to start where I left off.

<:: note to Brad, there goes my afternoon!! ::> LOL~

One thing you can do is to do a thorough scan and if absolutely nothing comes up after you have fully removed the virus try this:

Find the latest service pack for your version of Windows SP3 for XP and SP1 for Vista. What you need to do is find one that is an installable and downloadable package outside of the usual windows updates. Its normally very hard to find these. If you install this and then reboot and finish updating windows it should overwrite any missing, deleted or damaged files. These service packs usually include a full .dll library and thus fix the problem. This is not full proof but is a quick fix. Another method is to try to go to a prior system restore point but this might not work since this basically restores the registry and not the actual files.

Here is something I came across from Microsoft if you go to the security center on Vista:

To help protect your computer, the administrator should do the following:

Install and use a firewall.
Set Windows Update to download and install updates automatically.
Install antivirus and antispyware software, and keep it turned on and up to date.

It's important to keep Windows Firewall on, or install another software firewall.
Set automatic updating to download and install updates automatically.
Install antivirus software, set it to scan automatically, and keep it up to date.
Also, keep your antispyware software turned on and up to date.

Great post Eau,

There is also another way to do what you are saying that might be bit easier if your CD has the same service pack. Grab your operating system disk and put it in your CD drive, when the install window comes up and click EXIT.

Click on START and then click on RUN
Type /sfc scannow in the box (this is a system file checker in Windows)
I usually run a windows update for good measure

Hi Brad,Thanks for all your hard work. I haven't even been able to log on today (which perhaps is a blessing) but I'm told that it's just parts of Cleveland having a problem today!

I have NO virus protection program, I have my firewall turned OFF..... I used to have AVG virus protection, but I turned that off also......

I have simply turned off autmatic updates, remote desktop, I do NOT open attachments in e-mails unless I have been NOTIFIED I am going to be recieving an e-mail with an attachemnt from someone I trust....

I do NOT go to questionable websites.... or look at questionable UTube videos.... anything that cannot run with the software I already have installed on my computer is NOT worthy of seeing.....hehehehe... the potential PAIN is NOT WORTH it.....

I have NEVER had a virus infect and shut down my computer in over 10 years........

(BTW...I DO use Spyware Blaster...and SpyBot Search and Destroy...they are BOTH FREE and do their jobs WELL)

=-D

I was told by the geek squad not to even click the no button or the X to close the page. Instead you should go to the task amager and end the task.They said that even if you click the X you can dtill actually get the virus.

I had this problem and it sucked up a full weekend trying to get rid of the problem. Things seem to be OK but now you got me thinking I better check everything again. It is one nasty bug. The whole time I was swearing I was going to buy a Mac.

Good to know I was not alone in my suffering but sorry you had to deal with this problem.

Shane: Not going to get into the Mac/PC war because it's an old story... but I've owned Macs since 1984. 25 or 26 of them. I work on three right now. I've NEVER had a virus of ANY kind. I've NEVER owned a virus protection program of ANY kind. And I spend ALL day, 7 days a week ONLINE - it's my business.

Macs ARE safer. Ask anyone. And it's not specifically due to small market share, it's due to the UNIX based operating system which is INFINITELY more secure than Windows. You won't find a lot of viruses with Linux operating systems either, for the same reason. It has to do with permissions and architecture, not market share.

Will there EVER be a virus for the Mac? Sure. It's inevitable. All operating systems have vulnerabilities which could be exploited. There are a few out there now I'm sure, but you have to be VERY VERY stupid in order to get infected. Very stupid. If there was ever a 'real' virus that infect Macs, you would hear about it loud and clear, believe me. It would be BIG news. I don't think you can find ONE person who has ever received a virus on a Mac that was destructive. It's virtually NON EXISTENT.

Most of the 'chatter' and "news" about Mac viruses come from one source: Manufacturers of virus protection programs! Now isn't that special? I wonder if they just might have a reason to talk about viruses for the Mac.

If you want to avoid viruses, get a Mac. Simple as that. If you want to run Windows on your Mac (and it runs Windows faster and better than Windows machines, by the way!), then you NEED virus protection. Your Mac is now a WINDOWS machine and vulnerable to the exact same viruses.

Bottom line is on Windows or Mac, you have to be SMART. You have to understand how to properly use a computer. What to click on and what to ignore. It's not magic. Learn how to protect yourself. Even with Windows, if you use your computer properly, you don't need virus protection either. You just need to practice safe computing.

Pretty sure this is the little bugger that had my laptop in the PC hospital for five weeks. Practically had to have the whole thing replaced, and of course I was just dumb enought to ask what a person gains by creating such things. O, in case your wondering too? I was told just to see if they can..

It is unbelievable how people find pleasure in hurting others. I guess it cannot be stopped. Thanks for the heads up -- I am going to be extra cautious.

My other blog got messed up by something getting through on FTP... it was from this virus. It wasn't on my computer... but I went through all of the procedures to kill it... luckily it wasn't there.

OMG! This sounds horrible. Clint Miller said he spent 9 hours, like you, trying to get rid of it. I'm sure glad I've been warned. I really like the tip from Linda, who said that the Geek Squad told her to go to the task manager and end the program that way. Great tip! Along with the knowledge that it even exists. Whoa! Time to becareful!

Brad - I got a virus last month on my computer and I about pulled my hair out trying to get rid of it. I'm usually so careful about that stuff but this one got by me.

Great post- but 2 weeks too late for me. it was a nightmare!

as always brad you are wonderful and informative

I still can't believe how terrible and sneaky this thing is. I've been telling everyone I know about it and that they should be very careful. MAN, Buddy...you're gonna get a gazillion phone calls from people needing your help with this. You're definitely THE MAN!! GBU~

Fred I dont think you read the articles I posted. They were official reports released by Apple warning its users to install Antivirus programs immediately.

http://arstechnica.com/journals/apple.ars/2008/12/02/apple-says-several-antivirus-apps-necessary-to-protect-macs

Here is another one:

http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/apple_knowledge_base_article_advocates_use_of_multiple_antiviral_programs/

Here is an additional one:

http://arstechnica.com/journals/apple.ars/2008/11/19/another-variant-of-rsplug-trojan-for-mac-pops-up

So contrary to popular belief Macs do have viruses and is now officially warning its users they are completely unprotected against them. Why? Because its a myth that has been perpetuated by Apples own advertising. No one in the security industry has ever suggested not using protection and many have warned for years but only to go unheeded. Also viruses have been spotted on the linux platform as well. While the OS might be slightly more secure it does not mean it does not have security issues. In fact the claim that they are more secure than a PC is completely false.

Also Macs are made from the same internal parts as a PC. So once again this is false.

http://www.apple.com/macpro/specs.html

Whats that made of?

8-core: Two 2.8GHz, 3.0GHz, or 3.2GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon 5400 series processors

800MHz DDR2 ECC fully buffered DIMM (FB-DIMM) memory

Eight FB-DIMM slots on two memory riser cards (four slots per card) supporting up to 32GB of main memory

256-bit-wide memory architecture

ATI Radeon HD 2600 XT with 256MB of GDDR3 memory and two dual-link DVI ports

NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT with 512MB of GDDR3 memory and two dual-link DVI ports

NVIDIA Quadro FX 5600 with 1.5GB of GDDR3 memory, two dual-link DVI ports, and one stereo 3D port

That sounds like a PC to me. In fact I have a faster pc right now and it cost me several thousand dollars less. Saying a Mac is faster than a PC to a person who builds computers is like telling a magician how to perform magic.

So to wrap up:

1. There are already viruses for Macs and if you have no protection you are just plain crazy.

2. The people who spread the rumors that Macs are safer was Apples own marketing program. No one in the security field would make that statement.

3. Macs are definately not faster than PCs and in fact for the cost of the fastest Mac you could build 2 MUCH faster PCs. They used to be made from different hardware but are now made of the same exact parts that a PC is.

4. The chatter and the people saying this are Apple themselves. Why? Because they are going to get their pants sued off once the first wave of viruses hit and no one has any protection and they all claim "why should I arent I protected?"

5. The only reason why virus manufacturers focus on Windows machines is because they are more prevelant. Sure they have more holes arguably but they have more people poking holes at them. Until Macs started making up a larger market share there simply was more bang for your buck going after Windows machines.

6. Its about being safe and ignoring marketing ploys. Do not perpetuate myths that if you are smart you can avoid viruses. Thats the worst argument ever. The only possible case this is true is if you had a clean windows install and you never used the internet and then yes you are completely safe from viruses. But anyone who uses a computer whether its a Mac, linux, or windows machine is completely susceptible to virus attacks and without adequate protection you have no way to even know if you are infected or not. Viruses have come a long way since the 90's. You don't have to "click" on a file to infect yourself. They are on all sorts of websites including very major ones. Just last week MSNBC.com had a virus in the script of one of its ads when you visited.

7. The reason there are so many viruses spread around is because no one thinks it will happen to them and people run around claiming to not get them with no protection. That same argument went on with STDs and the use of condoms and it was a stupid argument then and its a stupid argument now. There is no security expert in the world who would say such a thing. I dont know about you but I tend to listen to experts.

end of rant. :)

Sounds like a real bad virus I'll bookmark and Hope I don't have to come back to use your advice.

Brad... Glad to hear that you were able to combat this nasty virus.... I have bookmarked this post just incase I hear of anyone who may run into this.

DEC

Just for the record, this post is not the platform for a MAC vs PC debate, though I am finding some of these comments to be very interesting and even educational and entertaining, seriously, I'd like to try and keep the majority of the focus on the AVP 2009 Virus and try to help those who have unluckily come into contact with it.

I love my MacBook Pro and my PC, but I'll save all those reasons and comparisons for another post.

My computer is now FREE and CLEAR of this virus, so I stand behind this post and the solution, I am positive it will work. The other suggestions and solutions you may find here in these comments are great, and I thank all the contributors, but I am recommending that you do whatever it is you have to do to get this thing off your computer.

The link I provided will work, but it may not be the only way. I'm sure other companies are taking full advantage of creating solutions for killing the AVP 2009 virus. It also goes by many other names so beware.

What gets me is why can't they find these guys, take away their computers, and stick them on an Island with no wireless or internet access?!? LOL~

Its big business. They make millions off sending spam using compromised computers. Thats why they do it. Some theorize its the mob or whatever you want to call them... international gangs.

Shane - "I dont know what malware bytes is and I would not trust it." I just gotta ask, How can you trust or not trust something if you don't know what it is? They fixed our computer, that's all that matters to me. This virus, regardless of how you get it or get rid of it is a nasty one and a waste of time in my opinion. Most people don't have your level of experience, knowledge and expertise, they just want the virus gone!!

We use Norton AV, and that was it! But it got through the gate, so at that point, nothing else mattered except getting it fixed. You'd understand what I mean if this happened to "YOUR WIFE's" computer!! LOL~ I thought it would take me 10 minutes to have her up and running again. WRONG!! When I finally came across Malwarebots.com and their solution, It worked and that's all I cared about...especially by 3:00am in the morning. My Mini Rant: This thing sucked my clock and time dry!!

Next time this stuff comes up, I'm giving folks a link to you my friend. haha!! If I would have known that you had this much knowledge about this stuff, I would have called you from 2-3am to help fix it. :-)) Thanks for all the feedback and comments. I do appreciate the effort when directed to helping others get rid of this malicious monstor of a virus.

Lenn - That explains what was happening when I was on the phone with you last week. Let me know if your computer guy can get it fixed, if not, call me or try the link I provided. Now that I think of it, we were having some of the same issues your were.

Karen - my pillow is my laptop! LOL~ Question is, what are you doing up at 3:00am leaving comments on my post? hahaha!! Right back at ya.. (wink wink) :-)) BTW - sorry this one took longer to reply. Big Smile!

Karen Anne- I think Shane has it right, and I quote, "Its big business. They make millions off sending spam using compromised computers. Thats why they do it. Some theorize its the mob or whatever you want to call them... international gangs."

Thanks, Brad! Appreciate your major investment in time and headache to help save the AR Universe!

You saved my butt - because I saw this the other day on my wife's computer, and she almost clicked on it!

Dean - there ya go, blaming it on the wife like I did! LOL~ Mine really did click it, but she didn't buy it. Once that thing is on your system, it won't go away. It will just get worse. Make sure that pop up bubble is not there at all. Or a red circle with a white X in it sitting in your system tray. Whether you click on it or not, you still need to get rid of it or it will get worse. Let me know if you need any help, I got your back!! :-)

Brad, I felt your pain .I was reliving thru your post my experience.About two years ago.I had a simmilar virus and it took me about four months to get rid of it. I Tried this, I tried ,that nothing worked Macafee, Norton nothing. After many frustrating months finally I got rid of it. Now I have your post bookmarked and hope never to have to look for this solution again.:)))

HI Brad - Yep. The bug bit me. I have seem to have eradicated it thru repeat running of Norton and AVG. I am going to check out your suggestions. Thank you for posting about this.

I had to remove this from a computer the other day. I like how it looks just like an antivirus program. Funny how it is still available out there and hasn't been shut down yet.

Thanks Brad. What a scary virus. I never heard of it before but now am on Red Alert!

Just another reason why I just got my first Mac! I was so sick of having to deal with all the horrible things out there that PCs can get inflicted with...I finally decided it just wasn't worth it anymore! So now I am one of the few VAs out there running on a Mac system...but of course I am still able to run all the programs that my clients need me to, I made sure of that... Congrats on finally getting your system cleaned up!

Link doesn't seem to be working.

I will check later.

I had this. I yanked all of my data and restored the pc to factory new.... whew. I got lucky.... because my data that I yanked didn't get infected.

Tom - I just checked all the links and they are working on my browsers, let me know if you are still having any trouble. I'd be happy to help you figure out why. Glad to hear you were able to save your computer, I feel pretty lucky too. :-)

@Fred Light and @Shane O'Gorman - Just found this, thought you both might be interested in the latest.

apple_pulls_support_note_recommending_antivirus_software.html :-))

Brad, whoa. Thanks for the heads up. I may have done just like Debra and clicked okay. Man they're sneaky and evil...I do so appreciate you and your talent. Thank you.

Later in the rain with a hug~Deb

Brad: Thanks... yeah, I saw that yesterday.

Hey, we're all entitled to our opinions. I absolutely disagree with Shane in regards to Mac 'viruses'. He is dead wrong, and I would love to hear from a Mac user who has ever received a virus that is 1% as miserable as this one has been for so many people. As a matter of fact, I would like to know if ANYONE knows a Mac user who has ever had a legitimate virus. They just don't exist unless you really do some very, very stupid things. You have to work hard to get a virus on a Mac.

Again, it's not about the way a computer is built. It's not about parts. It's about the operating system and the architecture of that operating system, which is UNIX. That's why we don't get viruses. It's not about marketshare. It's about the OS. And the Windows operating system is just not very good in regards to security. XP finally matured, but it is still flawed. Vista is far more secure but few people have upgraded. Most of Vista sales have been in new computers where you have no choice (although some companies like Dell do offer XP still, because so many people do NOT want Vista). Vista is a flop.

Maybe next time with Windows 7, they'll get it right. Rumor has it that it's what Vista should have been.... In the meantime, get a Mac! You'll find computing an enjoyable and even fun experience... maybe for the first time ever!

Macs let you DO your work. Windows just gets in the way...... This thread is a perfect example. How much time was wasted with this crap?

If you're concerned about viruses, ask anyone who USES a Mac, not a PC user who really is not aware of what he is talking about.

For now I have not been a victim of this virus but I will watch out and now I feel a little bit more prepared if it happens.

Fred - I can't get a better MAC than the one I already own!! LOL~ My MBP runs just great thank you! :-))

Brad: As does mine, thank you very much! (with no virus protection either!)

Jeannie - yep, that's the one! Glad we got rid of it, and now I am commenting from my MAC!! LOL~

Missy - funny thing is, I probably read your post and just felt sorrow for you. Thinking I was protected, I thought it could never happen to us? I don't pay attention to my wifes computer much because her and the boys are always doing music and pictures and video etc. And though it's on our network, it's not really attached to mine per se, so I never really payed much attention to it for her. I will now!! :-))

Brad,

Neal - in the past I would have said this is a heck of a process to go through every 6 months, but if it works, then it is worth the time and effort. Like Fred, I don't get virus's on my MAC, and MY PC doesn't either, I'm very well protected and always aware. Now my wifes computer is a different story. We have it back, under control now, and we'll be more cautious and careful with what and where the kids go on it from now on. Not sure where or how we picked this nasty virus up, but I wouldn't wish it on anyone. I'm all over it now. :-)

Brad this sounds very serious. Thanks for the heads up. As I hve read, it's too late for a lot of people.

Brad - If I'm understanding you correctly, we can avoid this by NOT clicking on these warnings??? I hope I do better at avoiding this than the last round of MeMes! LOL

Connie - if that bubble pops up, you DO have it already. But if you click on it, then it just gets worse. You need to iradicate it (i love that word) immediately. :-)

Carol - thanks for the comment, we did get it off her computer, and are installing a better anti-virus app to go along with her anti-spyware we just got. Should be good to go now...I hope! :-)

DEC

Daniel, thanks for this email and permission to post this here. I appreciate your time and the offering of your assistance. It's no fun for sure, but it's nice to know there's others out there like you that can help, and that know and understand what we went through.

You may be getting some contacts from some of our friends who read this post and comment here.

Thanks again, Brad :-)

From: Daniel
Email: mobiledragon@gmail.com
Subject: Mobile PC Repair Guy - Lucky Dragon Computers

Reading your Anti virus 2009 blog and I do sympathize as a mobile computer repair guy here in Olympia Washington www.luckydragoncomputers.com I remove that nasty virus many times a week! It is one of the most horrible Trojans i have had the displeasure of removing! Although its is relatively (emphasis on relatively) easy for me to remove a virus like this It can be a major headache to even the hardened computer user. it can seem like an impossible task to completely disinfect your PC as most times it will drop a down loader Trojan on you and saturate you computer with more variations of Trojans and spy-ware, antivirus spoof programs till your computer runs like mud.

Another overlooked item is the fact that your computer is unusably slow and broken even after you remove the virus and most people would do well to just have the virus removed and their computer tuned-up and cleaned up from their favorite local computer person.

Keep in mind a good computer Tech will show the user how to avoid getting the virus in the future and give them basic tools to keep the computer running fast and virus free.

Brad I read that article too about Apple pulling that note. There is a lot of speculation about why they did it. I guess we will have to wait and see. Personally I would rather take the 3 minutes to install a good, free AV program and not have to worry. I have seen this same debate with Windows machines and whats easier, having protected yourself, or do nothing and then hope for the best? One takes a few minutes of your time and the other takes hours to correct. PC or Mac after having fixed computers for many years, my job is a lot easier when people have done their part in securing their computers.

**********SO IF WE DO A SEARCH, WHAT CAN WE SEARCH FOR TO SEE IF WE HAVE IT**********

Tami - no need to search, you'll know you have it based on the symtoms posted here and the performance of your computer. As long as you have a good antivirus or antispyware application running, you shouldn't have to do a search for anything. If you don't, that's the first step is to get these two or combo applications on your computer.

I have heard AVG is a good one, Avent is another. I have NAV, but it wasn't good enough for the infected computer, now we are adding AVG. The Malwarebot application we installed now checks for spyware or malware. We use to use the FREE version of Adaware, but that didn't catch it either. Now we're good to go.

Make sure you call me if you have any questions, I don't want you to get this creepy virus at all. :-)

DEC

"...it will usually appear as a pop-up warning in your system tray that tells you "Spyware has been detected on your computer", then it coaxes you to run their program to remove it. DON'T DO IT! Do NOT click on that pop-up bubble or the warning that appears. "

I got this on my computer but did not run the program, I am confused, do I have this stinking virus?

Brad - this is very useful information. I have not had a problem but know folks who have. These things scare the heckj out of me, and I try to be very careful, as I think many area. No matter what, it can still happen. Thanks for all the assistance. This has been bookmarked, just in case.

Jeff

Hi Brad, Thanks for posting this and for the detailed instructions on what to do and not to do. A few times recently I have gotten the message: "Spyware has been detected on your computer" and asking me to click on it for more info and to fix it. I have always been suspicious because several years ago some friends of mine got a virus by clicking on a similar message. We have McAfee and many of my programs also are protected, so I recognize when it is one of their messages. If not, I don't trust it.

I'm so glad that you have made me feel less paranoid and that I have been smart and not just silly. So sorry you have had to go through this, but so glad you are helping the rest of us avoid that horror.

DEC

Thanks for sharing - I will bookmark it and hopefully never get the virus.

I bookmarked this one too, so thanks. Sure hope I don't get it too. Will warn my assistant and other friends about it. Sorry you had to go thru it. I do feel for you. No matter how careful, sophisticated and "techy" we are - it can happen to all of us!

Kelly - I think you may, does the bubble pop up in your system tray and warn you of spyware? If so, I think you got it. :-(

I have received numerous calls and emails from many of you and from others who have found this post. Sorry it has taken me so long to respond to some of you, I really am trying to get to each of you the best I can. Thanks for being patient. :-)

DEC

Brad, I have spent hours reading your posts & trying to impliment many of your tips & ideas into my blog - still learning, lots more to understand & figure out. But then I found this virus info - and have bookmarked this, in the event I end up with it!! A sincere thank you for sharing with us - Carla

Carla - it's such a nasty conspiracy, all these apps and virus's and spywares, but if you're careful and running the right apps live AVG antivirus and Malwarebytes, or whatever works best for you, then you'll be ok. You just never know these days do you??? Special thanks should really go to Katerina and Ginger Sala for helping me figure this all out and get it right finally. I owe them both BIG Time! :-)

DEC

Bookmarked but hope I won't need it. Thanks.

Brad- It doesnt pop up in my system tray, just popped up that one time, haven't seen a thing since and my system seems to run fine.

Bruce and Mary - I hope you won't either, but if you do, I'm here for ya, and can help. :-)

Kelly - you should be ok then. Sounds like you steered clear of that nasty ZLOB! If it comes back, just let me know, I can help you kill it. :-)

DEC

Brad - Thanks for the heads up on this new virus...(keeping my fingers crossed) that I won't need to take u up on your gracious offer to help get rid of it.

DEC

Brad- This bug is so freaking time consuming too! I just read the internet security organization is now saying that even the Mac is getting attacked and they are getting so much better at this and because there are more people buying Macs, it is now a new market for them. I am posting the investigative info on this tomorrow. They also are going to be attacking cell phones too.

Dora & Vincent - still here if you need me just in case. :-)

Katerina - It is a virus, by definition, this mean anything and anyone can be a victim or a target. I hope I can help others heighten their awareness and if need be, kill the virus if it attacks any of our members and friends. Like anything worth while, this is a fight worthy cause. Together, we can beat this virus, it's not a cancer, there is a cure, so let's stomp it out and put it away!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DEC

Brad, thanks for the head's up. I will definitely be looking for anything weird! ;-)

DEC

Brad, I have a pop up in my tray, no I haven't clicked it on. IT says it is from the program I run and I need to update but when I go to my program and click for new updates it is updated.

How do I get rid of the annoying pop up in the tray?

Missy - can you shoot me a screen shot of what that popup looks like? Next time it comes up, just click on the "Print Screen" button if on a PC, and the "Shift+Command+4" if using a MAC. Then paste it in an email, or in the comments here, and I'll see what I can do for ya. :-)

DEC

I do use SuperAntiSpyware but it checks for updates automatically and when i go to the main program to check it says i am upto date.

Missy - this is not the popup I was thinking of or seeing. It looks to be legit with your SuperAntiSpyware app. if your update says you are already cuurent, then you may need to contact them and ask them why the popup then? Just shoot em an email, they'll hopefully get right back to you. :-)

DEC

Ok Brad, I was wondering since we have 3 computers networked together if I were to turn on my computer and commence downloading the software to fight this (i clicked the bubble a while back) will it start to immediately infect all the computers hooked up with an ethernet cable in our network? If so does this mean if while I am downloading this if I get the other computers unplugged from the internet would it just halt and start spreading as soon as they are plugged back in? The way I see it if I unplug the PC's then only have mine hooked up it won't spread to the others, correct? Because I live with someone who knows about comps but hasn't done anything to mine yet and I am ready to kill off this virus on my computer.

-Thanks

DEC

Just got this email from Lenny, it Made this post worth doing just for this:

Brad,

Thanks for the information today about the antivirus 2009 removal. It took about an hour to scan my computer but it did the job. Thanks again for your help.

Lenny Luckett
Century 21 Seniker-Edwards

Confused teen - I would immediately remove it from the server computer if infected. I would then run this app on all three computers individually to be sure none of the others on the network were affected. It hit our home network, but only infected the one computer, I still ran the app on the others just to be sure. When all done, I would also install AVG for future protection while still running the malwarebytes software. Let me know if you have any other questions, I'll help you out the best I can. :-)

Brad, thanks..... My neighbor just got infected yesterday, and I forwarded your info to him and he is recovering from a long endeavor.

DEC

Tom - tell your neighbor I know exactly what he's going through, been there, done that, and no tshirt! LOL~ Tell him if he needs any assistance to give me a call, I'll walk him through the proper process to kick the !@#$%^& out of that virus. Happy Holidays my friend. :-)

DEC

Brad -

Where were you last week?!? I, too, tried to eradicate that virus (it would disappear, then return). It was insidious. Every time I tried to download anti-spyware or upgrade my solutions, the link went dead. AV updates and upgrades would not download, or be completely inert when they did. Couldn't defrag (tried lots on approaches on that) or system restore either. Nothing.

My system kept running, but it dragged and was dying. Boot-up wnt from seconds to minutes. IE was all over the place and Forefox did not offer any refuge (or alternative vehicle for downloads - my system was cooked).

Finally I was going to approach the problem through safe mode - that finished me off. Could not get back into Windows. Didn't back up my docs before the attempt, so 100's of hours of work lost. Had to reformat back to original start-up (which was touch and go for a while). More dozens of hours setting it all back up.

Now I browse only in Firefox and have all kinds of system protection.

Thanks for sharing - I should have been monitoring your posts all along. I will repent.

Happy New Year!

Art

Art - man, I am sorry to hear you went through that. This is one nasty virus for sure. Every time someone finds a solution to fix it, the virus finds it too then counter attacks whatever fix you try to implement. Sounds like you have it stabilized and protected now, but if you need any help, you just let me know. Happy New Year my friend, hope 2009 brings you great successes! :-)

JAN

Help me!!! I got this virus a few hours ago. I think I may have clicked on the fix it program. My Norton isn't removing it. I am in the process of down loading the malwarebytes and scanning. Is it too late?? Did they get all my info??

JAN

Scared - feel free to use the links in this post, they work. We were able to rescue and save our computer from this nasty malware virus. If you need help, just let me know... :-)

I had this problem too, very annoying! I have AVG and was very disappointed that it took several days to get rid of it but AVG finally healed the virus.

JAN

You will need an anti-malware application to completely remove the malware. Anti-virus may hide it or place a bandaide on it, but you will still need to eradicate it and run anti-malware to be sure it's gone. :-)

Hello Brad, thanks for the heads up and I will keep my eyes open for any of those symptoms. Always appreciate reading your posts, chalked full of terrific information. Take care and happy blogging!

APR

Brad,

I found another use for Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.

Today I picked up a bug that let in pop-up ads every couple of minutes. When I updated Spybot Search & Destroy and AVG Free, the pop-up problem miraculously went away. Just to make sure all was well, I had Spybot do a full scan and it turned up the Vondu Trojan aka Virtumonde. I quickly found out Spybot wouldn't be able to get rid of this, but Malwarebytes could.

Sure enough, their free version picked up about 20 more infected files than Spybot did, and zapped them into nonexistence. Sounds like a great company. I think I will now buy the active version.

Only been at this since before lunch. These people oughta go to jail for a very long time.

APR

Judy - it's a great application for finding these types of nasty critters that slip into systems like ours. Too bad we can't find the folks creating these and have them reversed to attack their creators!! :-)

APR

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