"Sasser" trojan/virus????
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"Sasser" trojan/virus????
Right, the main family PC (Win XP SP2) has developed a problem, which on boot up, it loads up as normal, then when the desktop comes up a box pops up telling me there is an exe called "lsass.exe" (can't tell if this is i-sass or L-sass) wnating to run, and do I want it to run or not? I clicked not as I don't know what it is.....
I looked in the system32 folder and came up with three files;
LSASS - In folder : C:\I386
LSASS - In folder : C:\Windows\System32
and
iSASS - In folder :C\Windows/System32 (that first letter is a capitol i)
Quick scan on google comes up with this being related to the "sasser" trojan, but there's a lot of conflicting info on which if the files is the legitimate windows file (i or L)
The first file I posted was created 23/12/2004, the second 08/04/2004 and the last one (the one beginning i) was created 13/02/05 - funnily enough only 2 days ago...
So logic says then that the two L version are legitimate windows files and the solo i-sass is the rogue exe...
My question is then - how do I get rid of it?
THe PC is running Norton Firewall and Norton AV (both came in the 2004 Norton Internet Security package). I have updated them both several times (so far got 11 updates, then 7, then another 3 - and it also flicked up a box saying I had to run Norton Firewall and not Windows Firewall - maybe it needs re-configuring?)
What do you guys suggest? Is it as simple as right click>delete on the i-SASS exe???
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lsass.exe (Thats "L" not I) is the valid Windows file. You will find a lot of mention of Sasser when searching the Internet for this file because the Sasser worm exploits a Windows vulnerability and shuts down lsass.exe which causes your system to keep rebooting with a Windows Error Message.
Isass.exe is a file I've removed in two logs recently so its definetly a baddy. If you wish to post a Hijack This log, I'll help you remove it.
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So I take it it's not as easy as just deleting the .exe file at source then?
I'll post you a log file as soon as I get on that machine and download hijackthis onto it - thanks again for your time and help Owen 
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You also need to fix the related entries in HJT and delete the file in Safe Mode. I recommended posting a log incase theres anything else unwanted lurking there.
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Okay, I got ya....
Here it is;
Logfile of HijackThis v1.99.0
Scan saved at 22:54:06, on 15/02/2005
Platform: Windows XP SP2 (WinNT 5.01.2600)
MSIE: Internet Explorer v6.00 SP2 (6.00.2900.2180)
Running processes:
C:\WINDOWS\System32\smss.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\winlogon.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\services.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\lsass.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccSetMgr.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\SNDSrvc.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccEvtMgr.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccProxy.exe
C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\navapsvc.exe
C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\SAVScan.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\CCPD-LC\symlcsvc.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\Security Center\SymWSC.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\hkcmd.exe
C:\Program Files\Java\j2re1.4.2_03\bin\jusched.exe
C:\Program Files\Dell\Media Experience\PCMService.exe
C:\Program Files\Intel\Modem Event Monitor\IntelMEM.exe
C:\Program Files\CyberLink\PowerDVD\DVDLauncher.exe
C:\Program Files\Real\RealPlayer\RealPlay.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\dla\tfswctrl.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccApp.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\PCSuite\DATALA~1\DATALA~1.EXE
C:\PROGRA~1\Nokia\NOKIAP~1\TRAYAP~1.EXE
C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\PCSuite\Services\SERVIC~1.EXE
C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\Digital Imaging\bin\hpotdd01.exe
C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\iexplore.exe
C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\SUSAN COWAN\Desktop\Matt\hijackthis.exe
R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Page_URL = http://www.dell.co.uk/myway
R0 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page = http://www.hotmail.com/
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Page_URL = http://www.dell.co.uk/myway
R0 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page = http://www.dell.co.uk/myway
O2 - BHO: AcroIEHlprObj Class - {06849E9F-C8D7-4D59-B87D-784B7D6BE0B3} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Reader\ActiveX\AcroIEHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: DriveLetterAccess - {5CA3D70E-1895-11CF-8E15-001234567890} - C:\WINDOWS\system32\dla\tfswshx.dll
O2 - BHO: Web assistant - {9ECB9560-04F9-4bbc-943D-298DDF1699E1} - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\AdBlocking\NISShExt.dll
O2 - BHO: NAV Helper - {BDF3E430-B101-42AD-A544-FADC6B084872} - C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\NavShExt.dll
O3 - Toolbar: (no name) - {BA52B914-B692-46c4-B683-905236F6F655} - (no file)
O3 - Toolbar: Norton AntiVirus - {42CDD1BF-3FFB-4238-8AD1-7859DF00B1D6} - C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\NavShExt.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Web assistant - {0B53EAC3-8D69-4b9e-9B19-A37C9A5676A7} - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\AdBlocking\NISShExt.dll
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IgfxTray] C:\WINDOWS\system32\igfxtray.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [HotKeysCmds] C:\WINDOWS\system32\hkcmd.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SunJavaUpdateSched] C:\Program Files\Java\j2re1.4.2_03\bin\jusched.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PCMService] "C:\Program Files\Dell\Media Experience\PCMService.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IntelMeM] C:\Program Files\Intel\Modem Event Monitor\IntelMEM.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [DVDLauncher] "C:\Program Files\CyberLink\PowerDVD\DVDLauncher.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [RealTray] C:\Program Files\Real\RealPlayer\RealPlay.exe SYSTEMBOOTHIDEPLAYER
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [QuickTime Task] "C:\Program Files\QuickTime\qttask.exe" -atboottime
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [dla] C:\WINDOWS\system32\dla\tfswctrl.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [UpdateManager] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Sonic\Update Manager\sgtray.exe" /r
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [ccApp] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccApp.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [DataLayer] C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\PCSuite\DATALA~1\DATALA~1.EXE
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PCSuiteTrayApplication] C:\PROGRA~1\Nokia\NOKIAP~1\TRAYAP~1.EXE
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NeroCheck] C:\WINDOWS\system32\NeroCheck.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [msbb] c:\program files\180solutions\ncase\msbb.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Anti] C:\WINDOWS\system32\Isass.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Symantec NetDriver Monitor] C:\PROGRA~1\SYMNET~1\SNDMon.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\RunServices: [Anti] C:\WINDOWS\system32\Isass.exe
O4 - Global Startup: hp psc 1000 series.lnk = ?
O4 - Global Startup: hpoddt01.exe.lnk = ?
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\j2re1.4.2_03\bin\npjpi142_03.dll
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Sun Java Console - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\j2re1.4.2_03\bin\npjpi142_03.dll
O9 - Extra button: Real.com - {CD67F990-D8E9-11d2-98FE-00C0F0318AFE} - C:\WINDOWS\system32\Shdocvw.dll
O9 - Extra button: Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Windows Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
O12 - Plugin for .AVI: C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\PLUGINS\npqtplugin.dll
O16 - DPF: {00B71CFB-6864-4346-A978-C0A14556272C} (Checkers Class) - http://messenger.zone.msn.com/binary...r.cab31267.cab
O16 - DPF: {14B87622-7E19-4EA8-93B3-97215F77A6BC} (MessengerStatsClient Class) - http://messenger.zone.msn.com/binary...t.cab31267.cab
O16 - DPF: {4F1E5B1A-2A80-42CA-8532-2D05CB959537} (MSN Photo Upload Tool) - http://by103fd.bay103.hotmail.msn.co...s/MsnPUpld.cab
O16 - DPF: {8E0D4DE5-3180-4024-A327-4DFAD1796A8D} (MessengerStatsClient Class) - http://messenger.zone.msn.com/binary...t.cab31267.cab
O16 - DPF: {B38870E4-7ECB-40DA-8C6A-595F0A5519FF} (MsnMessengerSetupDownloadControl Class) - http://messenger.msn.com/download/ms...downloader.cab
O16 - DPF: {B8BE5E93-A60C-4D26-A2DC-220313175592} (ZoneIntro Class) - http://messenger.zone.msn.com/binary...o.cab32846.cab
O23 - Service: Symantec Event Manager - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccEvtMgr.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Network Proxy - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccProxy.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Password Validation - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccPwdSvc.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Settings Manager - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccSetMgr.exe
O23 - Service: Norton AntiVirus Auto Protect Service - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\navapsvc.exe
O23 - Service: Pml Driver HPZ12 - HP - C:\WINDOWS\system32\HPZipm12.exe
O23 - Service: SAVScan - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\SAVScan.exe
O23 - Service: ScriptBlocking Service - Symantec Corporation - C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\SYMANT~1\SCRIPT~1\SBServ.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Network Drivers Service - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\SNDSrvc.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Core LC - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\CCPD-LC\symlcsvc.exe
O23 - Service: SymWMI Service - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\Security Center\SymWSC.exe
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Close all browser windows, restart Hijack This and put a checkmark next to the following entries:
R1 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Page_URL = http://www.dell.co.uk/myway
R1 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Default_Page_URL = http://www.dell.co.uk/myway
R0 - HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page = http://www.dell.co.uk/myway
O3 - Toolbar: (no name) - {BA52B914-B692-46c4-B683-905236F6F655} - (no file)
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [msbb] c:\program files\180solutions\ncase\msbb.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Anti] C:\WINDOWS\system32\Isass.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\RunServices: [Anti] C:\WINDOWS\system32\Isass.exe
Click Fix Checked
Then boot into Safe Mode and ensure that you are showing Hidden Files and Folders.
Delete the following files and folders:
c:\program files\180solutions
C:\WINDOWS\system32\Isass.exe
Reboot and post a fresh log
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Okay Owen, I have dones as you instructed and here's the new logfile from the fresh reboot;
Logfile of HijackThis v1.99.0
Scan saved at 20:35:48, on 16/02/2005
Platform: Windows XP SP2 (WinNT 5.01.2600)
MSIE: Internet Explorer v6.00 SP2 (6.00.2900.2180)
Running processes:
C:\WINDOWS\System32\smss.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\winlogon.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\services.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\lsass.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe
C:\WINDOWS\System32\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccSetMgr.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\SNDSrvc.exe
C:\WINDOWS\Explorer.EXE
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccEvtMgr.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\spoolsv.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccProxy.exe
C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\navapsvc.exe
C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\SAVScan.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\CCPD-LC\symlcsvc.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\Security Center\SymWSC.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\hkcmd.exe
C:\Program Files\Java\j2re1.4.2_03\bin\jusched.exe
C:\Program Files\Dell\Media Experience\PCMService.exe
C:\Program Files\Intel\Modem Event Monitor\IntelMEM.exe
C:\Program Files\CyberLink\PowerDVD\DVDLauncher.exe
C:\Program Files\Real\RealPlayer\RealPlay.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\dla\tfswctrl.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Sonic\Update Manager\sgtray.exe
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccApp.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\PCSuite\DATALA~1\DATALA~1.EXE
C:\PROGRA~1\Nokia\NOKIAP~1\TRAYAP~1.EXE
C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\Digital Imaging\bin\hpohmr08.exe
C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\Digital Imaging\bin\hpotdd01.exe
C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\PCSuite\Services\SERVIC~1.EXE
C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office\1033\msoffice.exe
C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\Digital Imaging\bin\hpoevm08.exe
C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\Digital Imaging\Bin\hpoSTS08.exe
C:\WINDOWS\system32\wuauclt.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\SUSAN COWAN\Desktop\Matt\hijackthis.exe
R0 - HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main,Start Page = http://www.hotmail.com/
O2 - BHO: AcroIEHlprObj Class - {06849E9F-C8D7-4D59-B87D-784B7D6BE0B3} - C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 6.0\Reader\ActiveX\AcroIEHelper.dll
O2 - BHO: DriveLetterAccess - {5CA3D70E-1895-11CF-8E15-001234567890} - C:\WINDOWS\system32\dla\tfswshx.dll
O2 - BHO: Web assistant - {9ECB9560-04F9-4bbc-943D-298DDF1699E1} - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\AdBlocking\NISShExt.dll
O2 - BHO: NAV Helper - {BDF3E430-B101-42AD-A544-FADC6B084872} - C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\NavShExt.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Norton AntiVirus - {42CDD1BF-3FFB-4238-8AD1-7859DF00B1D6} - C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\NavShExt.dll
O3 - Toolbar: Web assistant - {0B53EAC3-8D69-4b9e-9B19-A37C9A5676A7} - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\AdBlocking\NISShExt.dll
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IgfxTray] C:\WINDOWS\system32\igfxtray.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [HotKeysCmds] C:\WINDOWS\system32\hkcmd.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [SunJavaUpdateSched] C:\Program Files\Java\j2re1.4.2_03\bin\jusched.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PCMService] "C:\Program Files\Dell\Media Experience\PCMService.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [IntelMeM] C:\Program Files\Intel\Modem Event Monitor\IntelMEM.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [DVDLauncher] "C:\Program Files\CyberLink\PowerDVD\DVDLauncher.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [RealTray] C:\Program Files\Real\RealPlayer\RealPlay.exe SYSTEMBOOTHIDEPLAYER
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [QuickTime Task] "C:\Program Files\QuickTime\qttask.exe" -atboottime
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [dla] C:\WINDOWS\system32\dla\tfswctrl.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [UpdateManager] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Sonic\Update Manager\sgtray.exe" /r
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [ccApp] "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccApp.exe"
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [DataLayer] C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\PCSuite\DATALA~1\DATALA~1.EXE
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [PCSuiteTrayApplication] C:\PROGRA~1\Nokia\NOKIAP~1\TRAYAP~1.EXE
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [NeroCheck] C:\WINDOWS\system32\NeroCheck.exe
O4 - HKLM\..\Run: [Symantec NetDriver Monitor] C:\PROGRA~1\SYMNET~1\SNDMon.exe
O4 - Global Startup: hp psc 1000 series.lnk = ?
O4 - Global Startup: hpoddt01.exe.lnk = ?
O4 - Global Startup: Microsoft Office.lnk = C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office\OSA9.EXE
O9 - Extra button: (no name) - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\j2re1.4.2_03\bin\npjpi142_03.dll
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Sun Java Console - {08B0E5C0-4FCB-11CF-AAA5-00401C608501} - C:\Program Files\Java\j2re1.4.2_03\bin\npjpi142_03.dll
O9 - Extra button: Real.com - {CD67F990-D8E9-11d2-98FE-00C0F0318AFE} - C:\WINDOWS\system32\Shdocvw.dll
O9 - Extra button: Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
O9 - Extra 'Tools' menuitem: Windows Messenger - {FB5F1910-F110-11d2-BB9E-00C04F795683} - C:\Program Files\Messenger\msmsgs.exe
O12 - Plugin for .AVI: C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\PLUGINS\npqtplugin.dll
O16 - DPF: {00B71CFB-6864-4346-A978-C0A14556272C} (Checkers Class) - http://messenger.zone.msn.com/binary...r.cab31267.cab
O16 - DPF: {14B87622-7E19-4EA8-93B3-97215F77A6BC} (MessengerStatsClient Class) - http://messenger.zone.msn.com/binary...t.cab31267.cab
O16 - DPF: {4F1E5B1A-2A80-42CA-8532-2D05CB959537} (MSN Photo Upload Tool) - http://by103fd.bay103.hotmail.msn.co...s/MsnPUpld.cab
O16 - DPF: {8E0D4DE5-3180-4024-A327-4DFAD1796A8D} (MessengerStatsClient Class) - http://messenger.zone.msn.com/binary...t.cab31267.cab
O16 - DPF: {B38870E4-7ECB-40DA-8C6A-595F0A5519FF} (MsnMessengerSetupDownloadControl Class) - http://messenger.msn.com/download/ms...downloader.cab
O16 - DPF: {B8BE5E93-A60C-4D26-A2DC-220313175592} (ZoneIntro Class) - http://messenger.zone.msn.com/binary...o.cab32846.cab
O23 - Service: Symantec Event Manager - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccEvtMgr.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Network Proxy - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccProxy.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Password Validation - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccPwdSvc.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Settings Manager - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\ccSetMgr.exe
O23 - Service: Norton AntiVirus Auto Protect Service - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\navapsvc.exe
O23 - Service: Pml Driver HPZ12 - HP - C:\WINDOWS\system32\HPZipm12.exe
O23 - Service: SAVScan - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\SAVScan.exe
O23 - Service: ScriptBlocking Service - Symantec Corporation - C:\PROGRA~1\COMMON~1\SYMANT~1\SCRIPT~1\SBServ.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Network Drivers Service - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\SNDSrvc.exe
O23 - Service: Symantec Core LC - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\CCPD-LC\symlcsvc.exe
O23 - Service: SymWMI Service - Symantec Corporation - C:\Program Files\Common Files\Symantec Shared\Security Center\SymWSC.exe
I got a window on startup (when starting up into "proper" Windows) to say something about utility config has changed and I need to do something but I clicked the "don't show on start up" check box again and carried on...... ? Anything I need to do here?
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Thats a clean log now, by any chance are you reffering to MSCONFIG?
You should be fine, nothing to worry about. How are things running?
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Things seem to be running fine on it currently Owen - thank you SO MUCH (again) for your help with my logs and telling me what to do. I feel I am getting more knowledgeable with these things, but still not confident enough to try and tackle it on my own!!!! 
Thanks again pal
In regard to the pop up box I got when I rebooted into normal windows first time since deletingthat programme in safe mode, I haven't seen anything of it since (think I ticked the box to say "don't show me this message again" D'OH!!! ) but it was basically saying I had changed something whilst in safe mode I think and did I want to reverse that operation? SO I clicked no....
Recent scan on it suggests it is still the same as the last log file I posted here, so looks like we killed it
Quick question - that PC is running Norton AV and Personal Firewall - what should I have in the way of Spyware scanner/remover? I have Spy Sweeper on this machine (my one), seems pretty good, should I put that on the machine we just fixed, or use something else?
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Heres the programs I recommend to everyone. Spybot is very good (when installing put a checkmark in Use Internet Explorer protection (SDHelper) and Use System Settings Protection (TeaTimer) and this gives you constant spyware protection. SDHelper prevents bad downloads in IE and TeaTimer is always running and will alert you of any new startup entries added, changes to home and search pages, new Toolbars or BHOs added and new ActiveX entries added, which are O16s in Hijack This). Best of all, the software I recommend is all free.
Preventing it returning
After your problem has been resolved on the forum, it is an absoulute MUST to do the following steps to prevent the problem returning. Click on the link to get access to the software or webpage that I'm referring to.
1. Visit Windows Update
Pay a visit to Windows Update and scan for and download ALL Critical Updates and Service Packs. New updates are usually released monthly so check back to Windows Update every month.
2. Clean Up and Speed Up-
It is important that after you have had a spyware/virus infection that you clean up your PC (this includes cleaning out usage tracks, temporary files, emptying the recycle bin, etc). It is so important because during the installation and uninstallation of spyware (and most programs), many temporary or useless files are left behind. If you accidently run one of these files, you could end up with the problem returning. See the link above for lots of information on clearing out your PC and improving your PCs performance and general speed.
3. Consider an alternative browser or tighten IE settings-
Internet Explorer is installed on most systems and used by the majority of people, so of course its going to be a prime target for malware and hackers. To make the matters worse, Internet Explorer is very vulnerable to hijacks and the automatic installation of programs. This is how a lot of spyware enters your PC in the first place. So unless you secure Internet Explorer, you are seriously at risk. There is risk with any Internet browser, but even when IE is secured, there are still risks. IE can still be exploited as long as installed on your system, you don't necessarily have to use it, so this shows the importance of securing it. Here are five steps to take to Secure IE:- Install Sun Java instead of using MS Java VM. Get from www.java.com. Sun Java is much more secure.
- Scroll up and read about Windows Updates (number 1). This is essential to patch newly discovered flaws in Internet Explorer.
- Scroll down and read about Spyware Blaster (number 7. This is important so that nasty sites can't exploit your machine.
- Take a look at the article here. Scroll down to the "If you have to use MSIE" section and have a read of the information about the recommended security settings in IE. A program is also mentioned called IESPYADS, its is worth downloading and installing this.
If you wish to use an alternative browser that is perhaps more secure than IE, consider Mozilla Firefox, Mozilla, Opera or Netscape.
4. Download Antivirus Software-
If you haven't already got Antivirus software, you should download and install AVG Antivirus. It is freeware and is updated nearly every 2 days (sometimes more frequently if there are a lot of new viruses) and in my opinion, is better than some Antivirus software such as Norton. Antivirus software will prevent viruses infecting your system and it is important that you update it every two days or every week at the most.
5. Download a Firewall-
If you haven't already got a firewall, it is Very important that you download one. Firewalls will prevent unauthorised access to your computer and stop data leaking out of your computer. You may think that it won't happen to you, but Hackers don't care who you are, what you do, where you live or what you had for tea last Sunday on your holiday in the Lake District, they want your data. Firewalls will keep these sneaks out and one of the best is Sygate Personal Firewall, which happens to be freeware.
6. Spyware Scanners-
It is important that as well as having real time spyware protection, you have a spyware scanning application. If you have not already been told to download one earlier in this thread, it is a good idea to download Spybot Search And Destroy and Ad-aware. They are both spyware scanners and will search for a remove spyware. It is recommended that you have both, because one will pick up entries that the other misses. It is even a good idea to download these if you have other programs such as ASE, Spysweeper, Pest Patrol, etc, because one spyware scanner will not pick up everything. Please remember to update your spyware scanners weekly/fortnightly.
7. Prevent Spyware slipping through Internet Explorer-
Quite a lot of spyware slips through Internet Explorer if your settings are not tight enough. Spyware Blaster will help you prevent spyware slipping through and installing tracking cookies. Simply run it via Start> Programs> Spyware Blaster and click Enable All Protection and it will protect you. It doesn't even have to be open! Remember to update weekly/fortnightly.
8. Constant Spyware Protection-
It is important to have constant spyware protection. Spyware Guard works like an antivirus program but detects Spyware instead. It will constantly protect your system. Check for updates monthly.
All Of these steps are very important and it is HIGHLY recommended that you download all of the programs mentioned for your own safety. Remember to Update everything (including Windows using Windows Update)! It is also a good idea to perform weekly/fortnightly scans with Spybot S&D, Ad-aware and your antivirus software.
And last of all, please remember, that common sense is your greatest tool. Without it, spyware and other related Malware would rule!
