Turned on computer and all my files seem to be missing. Please HELP

[SlimzeeboY]

Hi

I am running windows 7 home. I turned my PC on and all my documents and files seem to be missing. A lot of programs are not working or say they require installation again, such as windows media player and itunes. I attempted rebooting and a system restore which have both failed. When I search for the files in my start search bar, they appear and some things like word documents can be opened, provided that they don't require media player or some form of program I previously had to open them. The Google chrome Icon is not appearing at the bottom of my screen when I open chrome either, instead a blank sheet comes up. After reading some forums I attempted to install malwarebytes free anti-malware, which keeps crashing when I attempt to run a scan. I have also ticked the show hidden folders in folder options, which did not fix my problem. I have run an AVG antivirus scan, which is 80% done. I am no computer expert, so could someone tell me what this problem is and simple step instructions on how I may resolve the issue, I would really appreciate it.

Thanks

 

[andrew129260]

To me, this sounds like a serious infection.

Do you have your data backed up? You can try backup your data by following these methods:

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorial...ate-live-cd-dvd-usb-use-emergency-backup.html

We can attempt to clean the threats, but a better option would be a http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1649-clean-install-windows-7-a.html, especially if your data is backed up.



Please read this entirely before we begin malware removal:


Before we start with malware assistance, I want to inform you of a few things:

1.) I am not a recognized malware removal expert. I do not have a certification from a malware removal school. Having said that, I have removed a lot of malware with PCs and have years of experience.
But just like no antivirus program is 100% effective, neither am I. My goal is to simply clean up your PC from any malware, and assist you in any way possible to help you secure your PC.

2.) Sevenforums (This forum)and I will NOT be held responsible for anything that might go wrong with your pc.

3.) You agree to follow all directions given, until I advise that your pc is clean and you are free of threats. You will not abandon the thread.


The most important rule of all:

4.) YOU WILL NOT INSTALL/change/modify OR ADD ANYTHING TO YOUR SYSTEM UNTIL MALWARE REMOVAL IS COMPLETE. No files or programs or anything of the sort.

Do you agree to these terms?​

If yes, reply with a Yes. If not, please state so and I will flag an official malware remover, or I will recommend another place for malware removal assistance.

 

[SlimzeeboY]

andrew1292

Yes. But can I first just confirm that you recommend I back up everything up and then continue with malware removal? Also the scan I'm doing it 94% done so I must wait for this to finish

 

[andrew129260]

Yes. Backup everything you possibly can. Do you have a backup already made however? When your system in badly infected, the last thing you want to do is back it up with newer stuff that could have infections on it. If you have a slightly older backup already, its best to lose the little bit of added info and go with the backup that is more likely to be clean, then the new one you would make.

Either way, you want to get your system clean first, get proper protection, and then restore the backup. But only after all your shields are up so to speak.

 

[SlimzeeboY]

andrew129260

Unfortunately, as I said I'm a rookie with computers, I have had this PC 2-3 years and never backed it up. With this being said, what do you recommend I should do? As it's quite possible for me to just move the infection on to the USB and put it back onto the clean windows 7 install right?

 

[andrew129260]

Yes the infection could easily spread to the usb stick during the back of your data. See if you can follow the tutorial in post 2, that will show you how to create a disk using a os called peppermint which will allow you to backup your data. Then we can work on either reinstalling windows or going through and wiping out the threats.

If this is all way to over your head, or you do not have time to do this, I suggest taking it to a store and have them backup your data and wipe your disk and reinstall windows. Then I can recommend some security software for you to use, and then walk you through restoring your data. Or have them do it for you. I don't recommend giving in to buying there security software or anything though. I would just have them back your data up and wipe the disk and reinstall windows.

Also, only go to a small business, large corporations do not take the proper time to do things right. Where most small trusted businesses will go the extra mile for you.

Either way I am here to help, and willing to answer any questions. I have confidence we can walk you through everything.

Let me know what you decide.