Hi Steel Kitten,

If you're happy then I'm happy. You've made a wise move using an alternative browser. IE has many flaws which are exploited by all manner of pests out there.

Now that you're clean, please take the time to look at how to prevent infection in the future. All the software recommendations below are tried and trusted programs which will greatly reduce your risk of further problems.


1.Visit Windows Update and download Service Pack 2 and ALL new
critical updates. You will have to make a few visits as your machine will
require several reboots between downloads/installations. It is imperative that
you keep Windows and Internet Explorer updated with these patches so that
malware cannot take advantage of any security flaws in the operating system which regularly emerge.

2. Install a quality 3rd party firewall such as Kerio Personal Firewall or
Sygate Personal if you don't have one already. A firewall is your first and last line of defence,
giving you control over which programs to allow access to both your machine and the internet. If you already have Service Pack 2 installed (XP users only), you will need to switch the Windows firewall off via Start> Control Panel> Security Centre) after installing the new firewall or the two may conflict with each other. Other installation guidelines include disconnecting from the internet and temporarily disabling your anti virus protection to ensure a clean install. Don't forget to switch your AV back on before reconnecting to the internet!!. Click here for a tutorial on how to use firewalls correctly.

3. Install SpywareBlaster. This program wil protect you from bad ActiveX code from stealth installing
on your computer if you accidently visit a malicious website. Once installed
Check for updates once a fortnight.

4. Install SpywareGuard to monitor any changes to your browser settings. This program offers a constant guard against spyware much like your ant virus software does for viri. Spywareguard alerts you if an installation of a spyware infected program is attempted.

5. Install IE-SPYAD if using Internet Explorer.
This is a registry import file which adds over 7000 known sites and domains
associated with spyware, hijackers, advertisers and other malicious programs to your Internet Explorer 'Restricted Zone'.

6. Consider using an alternative browser. Internet Explorer is used by
the majority of the world's PC community. This makes it the number 1 target for malicious script writers. There are other far safer and secure browsers which offer improved functionality such as Slimbrowser and
Firefox.

7. Use your own common sense and be careful what you download. Always read the license agreement for any program you're about to install unless you know for a fact it is safe. Spyware often comes bundled with legitimate programs and must be 'opted out' to prevent it from installing.
Click here for a further tutorial on understanding spyware.


Safe Surfing.

HJM