lacking experience I have a tenatious virus and need help to remove it

[Shabakthanai]

You may not wish to help, I am a Linux user usually and only use Windows 7 as a backup when having problems in my Kubuntu Linux application.

I had a problem with my Linux Operating System and needed access to the Internet to make repairs. When I opened Windows 7, I was interrupted with an urgent message to upgrade Adobe Flash with security problems. That must have been a phony, because all of a sudden demands for installing products for correcting problems appeared on screen. There was no apparent method for removal, even the Windows removal tool did not work.

The virus kept me from using wordpad to type or copy and past information relating to the problem. I copied, long hand everything I could read. Those screens that identified the problem after running virus software and AdAware, had such a small font size, my ageing eyes could not read easily. Sometimes an address to a problem location for the virus would not fit the presenting window, and I was unable to view the entire address to the problem, so I am unable to give you an accurate report.

I have researched the problem to see if others are experiencing similar problems, but the effort has been unsuccessful. I removed all the offenders using the uninstall feature in the control panel. I use ClamWin for my virus software, its clone in Linux is called ClamAv, and it has always worked great in the past.

Keeping in mind that the font size was too small to comfortable read, I may be inaccurate in the following which I copied long hand:

C:\Windows\SysWOW64\\userinif.exe [Win.Trojan.12490497] FALSE POSSITIVE FOUND

C:\Windows\winsxs\x86microsoft-windows-userinit-3316f3856ad364a35.6.1.7601.17514_none_de.3024012ff2116\userinit.exe:[Win.Trojan 12790497]FALSE POSITIVE FOUND

C:\Windows\System32\drivers\1a7532da-31ad-48c5-8d60-be70ecfbab.93gw64.sys:Win.Adware.Swiftbrowse-497FOUND
Infected files 12

When I ran the virus software there was an enormous list of files or applications that contained a Warning: Can't open the C;\......listing a huge number of what appear to be system files where the files were denied opening by the virus software due to permission problems.

Another identified Trojan showed a partial address, but would not expand to show the whole address was:

C:\users\STEVEN\APPDATA\ROAM|... Trojan.VBS.UDE scan failed.

One time when I ws running virus protection, a thing called ProPCCleaner redirecte. It ran with a scan without permission.

The report said there were 171 System Related errors
414 com and ActiveX errors, 187 errors afecting personal, Profile 14.36B 860 junk file
1632 total errors....I couldn't make out the rest.

For over 20 years, I have not had a virus in Kubuntu Linux, and I do not have the experience to remove a virus.

Will someone try to help me, or tell me what I should do. I am such a dummy when it comes to using Windows 7. Thanks in advance for any help you may provide.

 

[Jacee]

Hi Shabakthanai, I'd like you to scan your machine with ESET OnlineScan

1. Hold down Control and click on the following link to open ESET OnlineScan in a new window.
   ESET OnlineScan
2. Click the
   
   button.
3. For alternate browsers only: (Microsoft Internet Explorer users can skip these steps)
   1. Click on
      
      to download the ESET Smart Installer. Save it to your desktop.
   2. Double click on the
      
      icon on your desktop.
4. Check
   
5. Click the
   
   button.
6. Accept any security warnings from your browser.
7. Check
   
8. Push the Start button.
9. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
10. When the scan completes, push
    
11. Push
    
    , and save the file to your desktop using a unique name, such as ESETScan. Include the contents of this report in your next reply.
12. Push the
    
    button.
13. Push
    

 

[Shabakthanai]

I made a stupid error. I was in my kubuntu Linux OS when I got your message. I immediately did what you said forgetting that I wasn't in the offending Operating System.

When last in Windows 7, the computer would NOT allow me to enter any browser anymore. I tried a movie application I use a bit, Netflix, and the computer would not allow me to open that program either.

Even though I can still open Windows 7, the fact that I collected mail on my Linux application, it no longer will download to my Thunderbird applidation in Windows. Unfortunately I won't be able to click on your link using Thunderbird. Whatever is going on has completely taken over the Windows OS.

I tried to open Windows in Safe Mode too, but pressing F8 prior to the Windows splash screen did not enter Safe Mode.

After opening Windows 7 Operating System, and still unable to open a Browser, I can't think of a way to access your recommendation. Can you think of anything else I can try?

I have been using Kubuntu for about 20 years, its like an old friend. Never had a virus or adware or spyware and didn't even install virus software until recently when my computer was acting funny. No virus though.

Since I use Windows so rarely, I don't recall having a virus attack before and do not have the experience that would have happened had I had a virus. Wow, I hear this happens from time to time in Windows. I have never experienced anything like it. Every logical path to removing it seems to be blocked including access to the Internet.

I am baffled though. What do they expect to gain. I can't believe anyone would purchase their virus removal recommendation after an experience like that.

Right now I am writing from my Linux application. It is pretty funny, because usually when I am having computer related problems, they are Linux, and when Linux goes down, you have to have access to the Internet. It is the very reason I installed Windows 7 in the first place, dual-boot configuration.

It seems strange that Kubuntu is my avenue to try and save my Windows 7 OS.

Can't think of what to do. I heard a rumor that it requires more contact with Microsoft if I want to reinstall my Windows 7 Operating System. If that is the case, I hope I am up to the task. Everything in the Linux system is Open Source. Since you can download any Linux application, make changes with it if you like, with the blessings of the creator, Accepting someone's ownership agreement is never part of the process. When I do anything with Microsoft products, I always just select Accept, because if I want what is offered, I am aware that is the only way I will get it. That always made me feel like I lost some freedom, but like all Windows users, it is the cost of doing business. I suspect that may be how the virus got into my computer, I just don't know.

I never surf any questionable sites that I know of; I can't even understand why my type of use of my computer would leave an opening or reason to damage my computer. It just doesn't make any sense.

If you have any further ideas please post your recommendations, I count you a friend and wish you well.

I hope this is not an impossible fix; I have come to rely on my Windows 7 application for times of emergency.

By the way, if you have never test drived a Linux Operating System, download Kubuntu 14.04 and take a test drive. First thing after installation open a terminal and type in sudo apt-get install updates and press Enter. Next enter the command sudo apt-get install upgrades. When that finishes, type in the command sudo apt-get install kubuntu-restricted-extras and press Enter. There are lots of things you can do still, but that will ready you for a test drive.

Then, just for kicks, select the Kmenu icon on the start panel and select 'System Settings'. It might be a little difficult to find, but if memory is right it will probably be among the first selections you find.

It is the configuration page. Anything that wasn't automatically installed and configured when you installed the system is there to configure. I suspect you will have a lot of fun, because the options are endless and Free to install too. If you try and enjoy it, I wish I could find a way to safely connect with you. I would be willing to coach you in the learning process to make what i am sure will tickle your taste buds, but takes a while to become comfortable with without a personal helper.

It would give me a way to return the kindness you are extending me. Of the few times I come to the Windows 7 forum, everyone is so helpful and kind to me. I want you to know that I appreciate it.

Hi Shabakthanai, I'd like you to scan your machine with ESET OnlineScan

1. Hold down Control and click on the following link to open ESET OnlineScan in a new window.
   ESET OnlineScan
2. Click the
   
   button.
3. For alternate browsers only: (Microsoft Internet Explorer users can skip these steps)
   1. Click on
      
      to download the ESET Smart Installer. Save it to your desktop.
   2. Double click on the
      
      icon on your desktop.
4. Check
   
5. Click the
   
   button.
6. Accept any security warnings from your browser.
7. Check
   
8. Push the Start button.
9. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
10. When the scan completes, push
    
11. Push
    
    , and save the file to your desktop using a unique name, such as ESETScan. Include the contents of this report in your next reply.
12. Push the
    
    button.
13. Push
    

 

[Layback Bear]

That is a lovely post but I do believe what Jacee needs to know is; did you or did you not complete her post#2 on your Widows 7 computer. Eset online scan.

 

[Shabakthanai]

I was unable to for the following reasons.

When I read her reply, I was in the Kubuntu Linux Operating System reading from an application called Kmail. When I downloaded her reply from the server, the email no longer became available in the Thunderbird application of Windows 7, so I could not select it from her reply. I opened Thunderbird to check for new mail, it wasn't there.

Being unable to access a browser in Windows 7, I am unable to directly access their website while in the Windows 7 Operating System, and therefore unable to scan the potentially infected Operating System. Had I been able to select her link, I am pretty sure I could have gotten to the virus protection site. I can see it may be confusing, but I don't know how to explain myself better.

I really am not that smart when it comes to computers, and I don't see a way to achieve the scan. If I am missing something, please advise. I am willing to try anything to fix the system.

Thanks for the input, Layback Bear, there is probably something very simple I do not see. :shock:

That is a lovely post but I do believe what Jacee needs to know is; did you or did you not complete her post#2 on your Widows 7 computer. Eset online scan.

 

[Geek2go]

Shabak,

Since you are a linux user, the thought process is you are familiar with the terminal prompts and such and would lead to thoughts of you being more tech savvy than most. Next time, I suggest you lead with that fact that you are a novice user from the get go. Also, I recommend not recommending other operating systems in a Windows 7 forum.

Consider using a phone camera to capture text you cannot copy and paste. As well, you can print your emails or these instructions to perform the activities required of you.

Lastly, if you really are a Linux user, consider having TWO installations of linux instead of a linux/windows setup. You can dual install Kubuntu and Xubuntu side by side. I'm not sure why you need windows to access the internet when you have Linux unless you are playing around with system setup in which case, I recommend you look into Virtualbox environments to help you resolve issues. (This is a recommendation, not a fact. Take it with a grain of salt)

----------------------

If you cannot get Windows to run in Safe mode, perform this method till you get what you need:

Open the START menu and search and run "msconfig" without the quotes.
It should open a new window that should have a BOOT tab.
Check ON the SAFE BOOT option and enable the NETWORK option of it (something similar to this)

Once you click OK, it should ask you if you want to reboot. These instructions can also be found by googling them should you need pictorial representations. This will KEEP WINDOWS in SAFE MODE everytime you reboot, so make sure you return it back to normal by UNCHECKING SAFE BOOT mode when finished.

----------------------

Now you can go to this website Free Virus Scan | Online Virus Scanner from ESET to perform STEP 1 of Jacee's instructions. Once in that website, follow the rest of her instructions as stated above.

This should lead you to a more fruitful path of resolving your trojan/virus issue.

 

[Jacee]

Trinity Rescue Kit may help your computer. Please read .. Trinity Rescue Kit | CPR for your computer

Trinity Rescue Kit or TRK is a free live Linux distribution that aims specifically at recovery and repair operations on Windows machines, but is equally usable for Linux recovery issues. Since version 3.4 it has an easy to use scrollable text menu that allows anyone who masters a keyboard and some English to perform maintenance and repair on a computer, ranging from password resetting over disk cleanup to virus scanning

 

[Shabakthanai]

Dear Geek2go,

Thanks for your kind reply. I seem to get dumber rather than smarter as I get older. I also don't think about the ramifications of what I say, unless I have some kind of objective in mind. If I realied that I was doing what you suggested, I would not have made those comments.

I am going to be 72 in a couple of days; for my family it puts me at 19 years older than the lifespan of any other male, that we know about. I've mellowed a bit. I will take your recommendations to heart and apologize if I offended anyone. I hate to admit, most everything I deem important in life is ignored by our government, so a few years back, I decided to ignore anything political - that includes other than government too.

It is true that we use the shell a little more than most Windows users, but I am lacking when it comes to the natural abilities the average geek has. In Linux, it took me many years just to learn the stuff a geek understands while he is opening his first computer. My memory comes short too, so I don't use many of the short-cut keys. I just don't seem able to remember them.

On several occasions I have tried to set up and install VirtualBox. Each time I have failed. I sometimes feel so stupid for not understanding the things that are so simple for others that I leave and return some time later hoping for a fresh mind to attack the same problems hoping for understanding that wasn't there before.

The main reason I continue to keep Windows in my system is because I have the CD. I can get help without the Internet sometimes; you can't do that with the other system - you have to have access to the Internet to get the solutions to those problems.

Also, the program Netflix is very important to me. It is a voice in the room; in my case the only voice. Everyone from my past has passed. I only have one person that I see each month and that only for the time it takes him to drop me at the market. He doesn't talk much, but is very kind, because getting my food is important and without him each trip cost about $30 just for the transportation.

It is truly a shame that computing isn't easier for me; I just love it. Every time I learn something that I can remember and can count it as learned, I break out in laughter, I am so happy. Some of the stuff that trips my trigger the first time I learn it has taken me 15 years to get to the understanding part. Much of that is something gurus learn within days after their first experiences on a computer. And those with the natural ability don't understand my joy; that stuff is just too easy.

Actually, I am in the process of installing another Linux application right now. It will make me a triple boot, I guess. Closer to the end of my time on earth than the beginning, I want to experience as much of the cutting edge of computer technology as able. Since the one I will install is a beta, most people think me foolish. Shoot, it may drive me nuts trying to figure the things that go wrong when lots of stuff is always going wrong, but like I said, I love it. Eventually I get things fixed no matter the problem; and inside that effort I learn a little here and there that I would never known without the exposure.

I am grateful for my Windows 7 application. It was my salvation many times when I was trying to fix my other operating system. Also, in answer to your comment about VirtualBox, I already started that effort a couple of weeks ago. I really don't know why it is such an enigma to me. Maybe this time I will succeed.

I really don't understand why (that other operating system) is not bothered with viral problems and the like. Do you know if whatever it is that makes that so will protect me from this selfsame hazard, if I am successful getting VirtualBox to work with Windows 7?

This virus will not allow me to open a browser and surf. It won't allow me to open and watch Netflix either, so I must get it fixed.

Thanks so much for continuing to help me after I obviously screwed up. You may not believe me, but I am innocent of any intended abuse. Just stupid.

Shabak,

Since you are a linux user, the thought process is you are familiar with the terminal prompts and such and would lead to thoughts of you being more tech savvy than most. Next time, I suggest you lead with that fact that you are a novice user from the get go. Also, I recommend not recommending other operating systems in a Windows 7 forum.

Consider using a phone camera to capture text you cannot copy and paste. As well, you can print your emails or these instructions to perform the activities required of you.

Lastly, if you really are a Linux user, consider having TWO installations of linux instead of a linux/windows setup. You can dual install Kubuntu and Xubuntu side by side. I'm not sure why you need windows to access the internet when you have Linux unless you are playing around with system setup in which case, I recommend you look into Virtualbox environments to help you resolve issues. (This is a recommendation, not a fact. Take it with a grain of salt)

----------------------

If you cannot get Windows to run in Safe mode, perform this method till you get what you need:

Open the START menu and search and run "msconfig" without the quotes.
It should open a new window that should have a BOOT tab.
Check ON the SAFE BOOT option and enable the NETWORK option of it (something similar to this)

Once you click OK, it should ask you if you want to reboot. These instructions can also be found by googling them should you need pictorial representations. This will KEEP WINDOWS in SAFE MODE everytime you reboot, so make sure you return it back to normal by UNCHECKING SAFE BOOT mode when finished.

----------------------

Now you can go to this website Free Virus Scan | Online Virus Scanner from ESET to perform STEP 1 of Jacee's instructions. Once in that website, follow the rest of her instructions as stated above.

This should lead you to a more fruitful path of resolving your trojan/virus issue.

 

[Shabakthanai]

aaa

Trinity Rescue Kit may help your computer. Please read .. Trinity Rescue Kit | CPR for your computer

I failed to mention in my previous reply, that I also was unable to print anything. My hands sometimes shake a bit when I am writing; I am unable to focus sometimes too. Much of the print was too small to read; I had to guess a lot. The fine print seemed to be attached to descriptions of error messages and data provided by the virus software. I assumed it was just a very sophisticated virus, designed to trap you and any possibility to overcome what they have done. Hopefully I did not miss response to anything else you took the time to mention. I am doing something on the other system while answering this post, so until I can open Windows 7, I won't be able to attempt your current recommendations. Thanks again.

aaa

Trinity Rescue Kit or TRK is a free live Linux distribution that aims specifically at recovery and repair operations on Windows machines, but is equally usable for Linux recovery issues. Since version 3.4 it has an easy to use scrollable text menu that allows anyone who masters a keyboard and some English to perform maintenance and repair on a computer, ranging from password resetting over disk cleanup to virus scanning

 

[cottonball]

Shabakthanai,


Would appreciate your providing the following info:

1. Is the troubled computer running a 32 bit or 64 bit Windows system?

2. Do you have access to another Windows computer where you can download?

3. Is the Windows CD for the same Windows 7 Operating System as you have on the troubled computer?

Thanks!

 

[Geek2go]

Shabakthanai,

I did not mean you have broken any rules... I just started off with trying to state usual convention.

Netflix is watchable in Linux using Pipelight (please google it).

Have you completed the steps to a) boot your windows into safe mode and b) perform the virus scan as suggested by Jacee?

regards,
Geek2go

 

[Shabakthanai]

aaa

Shabakthanai,


Would appreciate your providing the following info:

1. Is the troubled computer running a 32 bit or 64 bit Windows system? 64 bit

2. Do you have access to another Windows computer where you can download? I believe so, I have a laptop I don't use much. It's a dual core 2300Mhz. My desktop is 8 core 4000Mhz with 32GB Ram.

3. Is the Windows CD for the same Windows 7 Operating System as you have on the troubled computer? My laptop has Windows Vista, not Windows 7 like my Desktop PC
Boy, you guys sure are great. I guess I was out of line with the content of what I said in one post, and still you all are so kind to me. I am sorry about anything I said that was improper. I am getting pretty old and screw up too much. It is never intentional though.
Thanks!

 

[cottonball]

Shabakthanai,

Let me ask this a different way...

Is the Windows CD you have for Windows 7?

Does the troubled computer also have Windows 7 installed on it?

 

[Shabakthanai]

I guess I am just getting too old. I haven't been able to get the pipelight thing to work, and all attempts to open in safe mode failed, so I have been unable to take Jacee's recommendation. You have all been so kind. I honestly can't figure out why I am unable to get Netflix to function, I was very careful to copy and past the commands that were recommended. As far as booting to safe mode, I believe I followed instructions perfectly. I also went to the Internet for instructions on the issue of safe mode; as far as I understand, I did the right thing and still failed. But still, I cannot get my version of Windows 7 Pro to allow me into safe mode, and unless I am unable to access the Internet while in Windows 7 pro, I don't know how to get help from the recommended virus application.

I have googled it. I really do not know what I am doing wrong. I have attempted, by copy and pasting the shell commands to get pipelight to function. After doing everything as instructed, when I click on any movie, even just confirm the fact that things should now work, they do not work, at least for me. I am getting so confused.

Shabakthanai,

I did not mean you have broken any rules... I just started off with trying to state usual convention.

Netflix is watchable in Linux using Pipelight (please google it).

Have you completed the steps to a) boot your windows into safe mode and b) perform the virus scan as suggested by Jacee?

regards,
Geek2go

 

[cottonball]

Please answer Post #13.

Thanks!

 

[Geek2go]

Shabakthanai,

Lets get back to topic:

You are having issues with your Windows 7 machine. Per Cottonball's message:

Is it the desktop that has Windows 7? If so, do you have a Windows 7 DVD?

Let's discuss Linux some other time. Try to answer the questions directly without extra info for now. This thread is getting longer than necessary and has not resolved any of your problems.

Cottonball,

Shabakthanai cannot get Win7 to boot into safe mode because he's using GRUB (it's a dual boot machine) and I don't think he hits the F8 quick enough. Also, he can't seem to get it into safe mode using MSCONFIG.

regards,
Geek2go

I guess I am just getting too old. I haven't been able to get the pipelight thing to work, and all attempts to open in safe mode failed, so I have been unable to take Jacee's recommendation. You have all been so kind. I honestly can't figure out why I am unable to get Netflix to function, I was very careful to copy and past the commands that were recommended. As far as booting to safe mode, I believe I followed instructions perfectly. I also went to the Internet for instructions on the issue of safe mode; as far as I understand, I did the right thing and still failed. But still, I cannot get my version of Windows 7 Pro to allow me into safe mode, and unless I am unable to access the Internet while in Windows 7 pro, I don't know how to get help from the recommended virus application.

I have googled it. I really do not know what I am doing wrong. I have attempted, by copy and pasting the shell commands to get pipelight to function. After doing everything as instructed, when I click on any movie, even just confirm the fact that things should now work, they do not work, at least for me. I am getting so confused.

Shabakthanai,

I did not mean you have broken any rules... I just started off with trying to state usual convention.

Netflix is watchable in Linux using Pipelight (please google it).

Have you completed the steps to a) boot your windows into safe mode and b) perform the virus scan as suggested by Jacee?

regards,
Geek2go

 

[Layback Bear]

Shabakthanai in order for these good folks to help you it's a must for you to stick to the Windows 7 problem.
Forget about your Linuz system and Netflex ect.
1. You must answer the asked question.
2. You must do as requested and if you can't please explain in a short exact post why you can't.
3. Remember you are our eyes and ears.
--------------------------------------
*Lest see if we can gather some information.

1. Can you boot into Window 7 Normal and Safe mode?
2. Do you have a Windows 7 DVD?
3. Please complete this tutorial by Golden so we can take a look.

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/274797-disk-management-post-screen-capture-image.html

4. Remember we ask these question in order to gather information about your system so we can better give advice.
5. You must help us to help you.

 

[cottonball]

@Geek2go,

I have a couple of laptops with a Linux Distro and Windows. However, I'm not an expert at GRUB, or anything else, either!!

If Shabakthanai can boot to a W7 CD , we have a chance to use a program outside of Windows, (FRST), and see if it shows the problem.

He will need to be fast, and when the initial screen with the manufacturer logo shows before the GRUB menu, he may need to select the Boot options key, if the computer is not configured to start from a CD or DVD.


Then, to enter System Recovery Options by using Windows installation disc:

• Insert the installation disc.
• Restart the computer.
• If prompted, press any key to start Windows from the installation disc.

• 
  
  [*]Click: Repair your computer
  
  [*]Select US as the keyboard language settings, and then click: Next
  [*]Select the operating system you want to repair, and then click: Next
  [*]Select your user account and click: Next

On the System Recovery Options menu you get the following options:

Startup Repair
System Restore
Windows Complete PC Restore
Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
Command Prompt

You need to select Command Prompt

...and we will go on from there. More instructions would follow...




@Layback Bear,

With all the problems being experienced by Shabakthanai, have doubts that providing that image is possible.


.

 

[Layback Bear]

You are correct cottonball.
If Shabakthanai can't complete the tutorial then we need the reason why.
If Shabakthanai can get into Windows 7 in normal or safe mode the tutorial should work.
That is the reason I requested it. We will at least know whether Shabakthanai can get into Windows 7 to do basic things was my thinking.
Plus if completed might show what partitions are marked as what.

I will go back to watching.

 

[Shabakthanai]

Please answer Post #13.

Thanks!

Yes.