believe it all started with the installation of the new nvidia geforce 320.49
Fit's with the evidence. I don't see malware as the cause of that particular problem.
Eureka , it works now
Excellent.
I think your machines is good to go now.
We have a couple of last steps to perform and then you're all set.
Follow these steps to uninstall Combofix and tools used in the removal of malware. This will also clean out and reset your Restore Points.
- Go to Start > Programs > Accessories and click on Run
- Copy and paste the the bolded text below in the box then hit OK
Combofix /Uninstall
- Double-click OTL.exe to run it. (Vista users, please right click on OTL.exe and select "Run as an Administrator")
- Click on the CleanUp! button
- Click Yes to begin the Cleanup process and remove these components, including this application.
- You will be asked to reboot the machine to finish the Cleanup process. If you are asked to reboot the machine choose Yes.
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A reminder: Remember to (re-install if uninstalled during cleaning) update and turn back on any anti-malware programs you may have turned off during the cleaning process.
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Here are some things that I think are worth having a look at if you don't already know about them:
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It is good security practice to change your passwords to all your online accounts on a fairly regular basis, this is especially true after an infection. Refer to this Microsoft article Strong passwords: How to create and use them.
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Java warning
Java is a popular point of entry to your computer for malicous programs. The United States Department of Homeland Security recommends that computer users disable Java see here. Unless you need it to run an important software the safest approach is to completely uninstall Java. Where you do require it then the next safest option is to disable it in your browsers until you need it, then enable it.
How to disable Java in your web browser and How to unplug Java from the browser
If you do still need Java then regularly check that it is up to date. Older versions are the most vulnerable to malicious attack.
- Download Java for Windows
Reboot your computer.
You also need to unininstall older versions of Java.
- Click Start > Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs
- Remove all Java updates except the latest one you have just installed.
To help protect your computer in the future:
If you do not already have automatic updates set then it is recommended that you do set Windows to check, download and install your updates automatically.
* Click Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Update
* Under Windows Update click on Turn automatic updating on or off
* Check items shown to ensure you receive updates automatically. Click OK.
Be aware of what emails you open and websites you visit.
Go here for some good advice about how to prevent infection.
A fun way to check your online safety literacy.
Quiz - getsafeonline
Have a safe and happy computing day!