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Combofix destroyed my computer [Solved]


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#1
alabadeeb

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Hi,
My computer was running slow and having problems so i used combofix( I know it was a big mistake;don't get angry). now the computer doesn't open any programs except internet explorer and I can't download anything. I need help.

Thank you,
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#2
alabadeeb

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I forgot to mention that the computer works fine when I am at the safe mode with networking but then the programs doesn't work at the regular mode.
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#3
Dakeyras

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Hi and welcome back to Geeks to Go. :)

My computer was running slow and having problems so i used combofix( I know it was a big mistake;don't get angry). now the computer doesn't open any programs except internet explorer and I can't download anything.

What prompted you to download and deploy ComboFix if I may ask ? Though as you have realised not a prudent move on your behalf, this is normally the information I provide for anyone I assist and have opted to use:-

A word of warning: Neither I nor sUBs are responsible for any damage you may have caused your machine by running ComboFix on your own.
This tool is not a toy and not for everyday use. ComboFix Should Not be used unless requested by a trained Anti-Malware helper.

Anyway you will get no recrimination from myself I assure you and lets see if we can remedy this situation and if the need carry out a Malware Removal process OK.

Next:

Can you confirm for myself the machine still uses the following:-

Vista Home Premium Edition 32 Bit Service Pack 2, is for home use only and provide the answer to my prior query about using ComboFix and we will go from there, thank you.
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#4
alabadeeb

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Thank you I really appreciate you taking time to reply to this message. But I already restored the system to the factory condition using the recovery today. I used combofix because I found a video in the internet that guides you in removing malware and they directed me to use it. It wasn't really a smart move and I should have came here first. Again thanks for your reply and the help.

Edited by alabadeeb, 02 February 2013 - 04:38 PM.

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#5
Dakeyras

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Hi. :)

Thank you I really appreciate you taking time to reply to this message.

You're welcome!

But I already restored the system to the factory condition using the recovery today

Fair play and thank you for the courtesy of informing myself.

I used combofix because I found a video in the internet that guides you in removing malware and they directed me to use it. It wasn't really a smart move and I should have came here first.

OK fair enough, such information is never wise to trust at all to be quite honest. The actual only reputable/trustworthy source far as I am aware is here and that is merely something to follow when advised to do so by by a trained Anti-Malware helper for example.

Anyway since you have invoked your machines recovery partition, would you care for some online safety advice, what to do now etc ?
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#6
alabadeeb

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yeah sure if you can give me some advices in how to keep my computer clean that will be great. Thank you
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#7
Dakeyras

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Hi. :)

yeah sure if you can give me some advices in how to keep my computer clean that will be great. Thank you

OK and your welcome!

Next:

Most new machines when shipped by the vendors tend to come with all kinds of dross pre-installed and if the inbuilt recovery partition is invoked like you just did with the yours, basically it is back as was when first booted up etc.

So this application here is worth both downloading and running.

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Install all critical updates and relevant service packs via Windows Update. For Vista the latest is SP2.

I would also ensure Internet Explorer is up-to date also. For Vista based machines it is IE9. Reason being even if you opt not to use IE as your main browser having a out of date version installed can leave any one machine vulnerable to malware.

The aforementioned should be available via Windows Update, if not can be downloaded from here.

Once the machine is updated and fully patched, I do advise visiting Windows Update periodically as Microsoft releases patches for Windows and other products regularly.

Plus check Automatic Updates is enabled.

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Then install a Anti-Virus software solution, only ever have one of such installed and active in system memory at any one time.

Either of the below will suffice:-

Which ever of the above you choose to install, automatically checks for updates and downloads/installs them with every system reboot and or periodically if the machine is left running providing a internet connection is active.

I advise you also run a complete scan with this at least once per week.

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Installing a specific Anti-Spyware application would be prudent, myself I recommend:-

Malwarebyte's Anti-Malware

During the installation process you will be offered the Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware Trial. Your choice to enable or not...

After installing, I advise check for updates and run a scan at least once per week.

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Emergency Recovery Utility NT. I advice you consider installing this, as a means to keep a complete backup of your registry and restore it when needed. Instructions can be read here.

Myself I would actually create a new back up once per week as this along with System Restore may prove to be invaluable if something unforeseen occurs!

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A custom Host-File is a further layer of protection whilst browsing online.

Either of the below will suffice:-

Only use one of the above!

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Consider installing WinPatrol. This application alerts you about possible system hijacks, malware attacks and critical changes made to your computer without your permission.

Download it from here.

You can find information about how WinPatrol works here.

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Finally, periodically visit the Secunia Online Software Inspector to ensure all third party software is up-to date. As many such as Adobe and Java related applications for example if out of date can be exploited by malware.

Or alternatively download/install and use FileHippo Update Checker...
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#8
Dakeyras

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Since this issue appears to be resolved ... this Topic has been closed. Glad we could help. :)

If you're the topic starter, and need this topic reopened, please contact a staff member with the address of the thread.

Everyone else please begin a New Topic.
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