Jared0×90

Here is a list of some of the things I do to remove spyware/malware in no particular order:

Try all the following in safe mode if necessary.

• remember “dir *pattern* /b/s” is your friend.
• Run Mike Lin’s Startup Control Panel and kill any odd stuff
• Do the same with Hijack this and Startup List
• Check hosts files in WINDOWS\system32\drivers\etc
• Run task manger and/or process explorer and kill/google odd stuff. Also use process explorer target function to find out thread that is over mouse - great for popups and nag screens of unknown origin.
• Look for unscrupulous system services that are started or have auto startup.
• Look in registry at HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer for things screwing up the desktop.
• Search the registry for things that run at startup (Run folders) : note Mike Lin’s program displays these
• Look in the Customize Desktop properties for things that could be locking the desktop. Uncheck any active desktops that are enabled.
• Look in the IE connection settings for an odd proxy setting.
• Start sysedit and look for anything out of place in any of the files that it displays.
• Also - chances are if you are reading this you should probably take a look at some antispyware and antivirus packages. Microsoft Antispyware and AdAware are decent. I personally use Microsoft’s Antispyware along with a few other programs on my machines I allow to connect to the internet.

I am sure I am forgetting tons of things so please email me/reply and remind me!