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Consumer Products => Avast Free Antivirus / Premium Security (legacy Pro Antivirus, Internet Security, Premier) => Topic started by: joncjones on February 27, 2012, 04:42:17 PM

Title: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: joncjones on February 27, 2012, 04:42:17 PM
I have version Avast Free version 6.0.1367 with update 120226-4.

This will now not auto-update or allow programme version updates.
It will also not allow uninstall-reinstall or repair. It will also not allow a manual update of definition files.
Both uninstall and updates fail with the error message attached.

I am remotely accessing this machine so I cannot use "aswclear" in safe mode either.

The computer is Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit SP1

Any suggestions ?

with thanks

J
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Vlk on February 27, 2012, 05:13:26 PM
There are two ways to solve the problem:

- uninstall using aswClear, and reinstall
- wait for a specialized program that will resolve the problem (we will be publishing it later today).

The problem happened because an invalid definition file was uploaded to our server, and was being sent out to clients. The program I mentioned will replace this bogus file with the correct one.

I apologize for the inconveniece.
Vlk
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: chimp78 on February 27, 2012, 05:19:55 PM
Do we just leave the Version 7 alone for now without uninstalling until Avast takes care of it and it then will be fine after they fix it? Do we have to download a program you mentioned to fix it ourselves when it is out anytime? Thanks.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Vlk on February 27, 2012, 05:29:20 PM
If avast got into the state where it "hangs" when you attempt to invoke an update (either virus definitions or program update) you will have to manually fix it by downloading the program I mentioned.

This happened to people who tried to invoke a PROGRAM update in the last ~12 hours (from within the avast UI).

Thanks
Vlk
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: dex650 on February 27, 2012, 05:34:24 PM
See here for how to uninstall with that error message.
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94424.msg752160#msg752160
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Hermite15 on February 27, 2012, 05:35:19 PM
If avast got into the state where it "hangs" when you attempt to invoke an update (either virus definitions or program update) you will have to manually fix it by downloading the program I mentioned.

This happened to people who tried to invoke a PROGRAM update in the last ~12 hours (from within the avast UI).

Thanks
Vlk

by hanging you mean nothing's being downloaded, not an AvastUI or svc hang, right? anyway here I've been able to update virus def up to 27-0 ... now checking (program or def) doesn't work anymore. Should I use the program you're talking about or not? thanks.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: hayc59 on February 27, 2012, 05:42:29 PM
Vlk can you give a more accurate time frame? thanks
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: chimp78 on February 27, 2012, 06:14:16 PM
Vlk can you give a more accurate time frame? thanks

Yes, please do.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: been on February 27, 2012, 06:23:38 PM
Hi,
I'm also experiencing this problem and would be grateful for confirmation that my system is protected ... and also a timeline for the repair program.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: joncjones on February 27, 2012, 06:40:24 PM
OK Vlk - thanks for the update - I will wait for the stand-alone programme fix.

As I say I cannot use "aswclear" as I can only remote access the affected machine so I need a solution that will work via remote access (in this case Log Me In)

thanks

J
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: bestmen on February 27, 2012, 06:41:49 PM
Same problem here. stuck with yesterday's definition updates which means that we're not protected against current threats implemented in the newest virus database.

I only dared to do what the Avast popup asked me to: do a program update.

Lesson learned for me!

Having to install another program to solve the problem is ...
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Vlk on February 27, 2012, 06:45:25 PM
Vlk can you give a more accurate time frame? thanks

A couple of hours.

Thanks
vlk
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: been on February 27, 2012, 06:53:24 PM
Thanks for the reply. I'd also be grateful for reassurance that the fix won't need to be run in Safe mode, for some reason my system won't start in safe mode with F8.  :o(
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: chimp78 on February 27, 2012, 06:56:00 PM
Ok, thank you.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: koam on February 27, 2012, 06:58:07 PM
If avast got into the state where it "hangs" when you attempt to invoke an update (either virus definitions or program update) you will have to manually fix it by downloading the program I mentioned.

This happened to people who tried to invoke a PROGRAM update in the last ~12 hours (from within the avast UI).

Thanks
Vlk

This is what happened to me. 

I saw a pop up yesterday (Sunday) from Avast! saying there's a new version of the program.  A few hours later, I tried to do a program update and it hung.

See this thread at DSLR/BBR:  http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r26942163-avast-Issue-Fix-coming-

I'd like to know when it's all just fixed.  I see many pages of issues with v7 on this forum.  I don't need to upgrade if there are going to be these problems. 

Would like to know when it's all smoothed out so that I don't corrupt my OS, my Chrome, my Apps, etc.

I have 6 running with virus database from yesterday...I suppose I''m fairly safe for now. Is that correct?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: drew316 on February 27, 2012, 07:04:37 PM
Same problem here on a vista 32bit machine.  update stopped last night after a 1/4 of the way, now any attempt to update, uninstall, or manual update gives error message that has avast5\setup in the address line for some reason, even though I have 6 and am trying to get 7.  error is all zeros, last action is "spawning".
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Vlk on February 27, 2012, 07:06:07 PM
OK. No need to post anymore, the issue is known and as stated above a fix is coming in a couple of hours.

Thanks.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Joseph Collins on February 27, 2012, 07:10:55 PM
- wait for a specialized program that will resolve the problem (we will be publishing it later today).

The problem happened because an invalid definition file was uploaded to our server, and was being sent out to clients. The program I mentioned will replace this bogus file with the correct one.

I apologize for the inconveniece.
Vlk
You know what?  It's okay.  I was personally upset when avast! stopped wanting to update and have been displeased by the whole v7 experience so far, but as I figured, you guys are trying to fix it, so I'm more than willing to let bygones be bygones.

Thank you for letting us know what's going on.  Here's to a speedy and satisfying conclusion to this black spot on what's otherwise excellent service.  :D
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: koam on February 27, 2012, 07:11:03 PM
I'd like to know how this planned fix relates to the pages of issues with v7 that we're seeing here:  http://forum.avast.com/index.php?board=2.0

Does it mean that users of v6 who are currently affected by this lockup (currently unable to update program or engine & definitions), will now be able to upgrade to v7 but then become subject to all the ongoing issues noted in the forum? 

I ask because I'd just like to be able to get definitions for v6 when that's fixed and then be advised when the v7 issues have subsided before I upgrade the program. 

Thanks.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: REDACTED on February 27, 2012, 08:04:30 PM
OK. No need to post anymore, the issue is known and as stated above a fix is coming in a couple of hours.
Thanks.

Will it solve the problem of a sandbox (security check)  - You know that warning Sandbox jumps very often ... ?
Thx
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: DavidR on February 27, 2012, 08:44:06 PM
I rather doubt it as it has nothing to do with the autosandbox, but a corrupt virus definitions update, that has effectively locked the update function.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: robertaitaly on February 27, 2012, 09:08:09 PM
Ciao a tutti, sono nuova del forum. Mi sta anche bene aspettare che esca una patch per l'aggiornamento del programma, però sono preoccupata per l'aggiornamento dei virus.... non fa neppure quello.
Mi dispiace, capisco abbastanza l'inglese ma non so scrivere.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Tetsuo on February 27, 2012, 09:34:43 PM
Ciao a tutti, sono nuova del forum. Mi sta anche bene aspettare che esca una patch per l'aggiornamento del programma, però sono preoccupata per l'aggiornamento dei virus.... non fa neppure quello.
Mi dispiace, capisco abbastanza l'inglese ma non so scrivere.

Purtroppo il problema coinvolge anche l'aggiornamento delle definizioni dei virus. In pratica ogni tipo di aggiornamento è bloccato.
Questa sezione è dedicata solo alla lingua inglese ma se hai altre domande o ti servono informazioni, contattami pure via PM (ti risponderò domani però, sorry)

Ciao ; )
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: been on February 27, 2012, 09:47:05 PM
Is there any news on the fix? Failing that can anyone please confirm that it's safe to use aswclear while this update lock problem exists?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: robertaitaly on February 27, 2012, 10:03:30 PM
Ciao a tutti, sono nuova del forum. Mi sta anche bene aspettare che esca una patch per l'aggiornamento del programma, però sono preoccupata per l'aggiornamento dei virus.... non fa neppure quello.
Mi dispiace, capisco abbastanza l'inglese ma non so scrivere.

Purtroppo il problema coinvolge anche l'aggiornamento delle definizioni dei virus. In pratica ogni tipo di aggiornamento è bloccato.
Questa sezione è dedicata solo alla lingua inglese ma se hai altre domande o ti servono informazioni, contattami pure via PM (ti risponderò domani però, sorry)

Ciao ; )

Ciao Tetsuo, grazie mille per la tua gentilezza. Non devo fare altro che aspettare, pertanto, come tutti, per il momento. Se avrò bisogno maggiori dettagli, ti contatterò via PM. Ora posto ancora qui, perché non ho installato il relativo programma di messaggistica.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: chimp78 on February 27, 2012, 10:07:10 PM
Is there any news on the fix? Failing that can anyone please confirm that it's safe to use aswclear while this update lock problem exists?

Hence to the people who used the aswclear, it worked for them. Make sure to follow the instruction that it shows. I have not used it yet, but am waiting for a tool/program to come out anytime to fix/repair the issue first. If that does not work, then will use the aswclear lastly.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: been on February 27, 2012, 10:20:22 PM
Thanks Chimp78, I think I shall probably follow your lead and wait for the fix before doing anything drastic. I'm just getting a bit fed up with the whole thing - I've already had to change settings (switching rootkit scan off and Avasst to load after other services) to stop a hanging problem at start up).
I've used Avast for years and it's generally been a superb product and one that is provided for free (for which I'm very grateful)... but I can't help but feel that Avast have let themselves down with version 7. AV software really shouldn't be released until it's been fully and thoroughly tested and I'm not convinced that that's the case with this release.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Tommy81 on February 27, 2012, 10:33:35 PM
OK. No need to post anymore, the issue is known and as stated above a fix is coming in a couple of hours.

Thanks.
Hi Vlk,

We get the fix here on the website or by updating? Is it ready?

Thanks
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: chimp78 on February 27, 2012, 10:38:56 PM
been, I know. I have been used Avast for few years with no problems until this one. Hopefully, it all will be solved soon as possible.

Tommy81, I think we will need to download it here and at Facebook, to fix/repair ourselves after it comes out, at least it is what Vlk said.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: been on February 27, 2012, 10:40:23 PM
I think it's safe to say that we won't get the fix by updating! I'm assuming that a link will be posted to it on this thread given that Vlk has answered posts here.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: DavidR on February 27, 2012, 10:40:51 PM
<snip>
We get the fix here on the website or by updating? Is it ready?

I guess if you currently can't update, then you probably won't be able to get it through the update function.

So the most likely route would be being notified in the forums, with a link for the fix.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: MsAdelle on February 27, 2012, 10:45:40 PM
My XP computer is also doing this, maybe 3 days now. I use Avast Pro

It will not update (program or virus database)  and a manual attempt does nothing, it just hangs. Uninstallation does not work as it wont allow aswclear. I just get a message saying the source file cannot be read.

If I look for repair in the add/remove programs there isnt one and it wont uninstall from there either. Same message - source file cannot be read.

Does anyone know when the "fix" will be available please?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: been on February 27, 2012, 11:04:49 PM
To be honest I'm now becoming worried and a little angry. It's hours since the fix should have become available and there's no word from Avast ... and with people reporting that aswclear doesn't work I'm becoming concerned that the OS could become corrupted. I really wish someone would at least give us an update.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: slybo on February 27, 2012, 11:39:47 PM
Sorry but I am a little confused. I have two computer, both updated to 27-0 this morning. I was gone most of the day and just turned them back on. One updated to 27-1 the other one shows 27-0 in red. The one that updated to 27-1 is ok? Only need to run the fix, when issued, on the one showing 27-0 in red? Since I turned them on one after another why did one appear ok, is this not happening to all computers? Really need to know if I should do both when fix comes out. Thanks slybo
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: been on February 27, 2012, 11:42:32 PM
I would guess that if you've been able to 27-0 then you're probably ok.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: slybo on February 27, 2012, 11:48:57 PM
Do not think you understand, the one with 27-0 is in red because it will not update and it knows it is not up to date with 27-1. I know I will have to do that one, I am more interested in the one that got the 27-1, why it updated and is it possible that it got the bad file and I also need to do that one. Thanks slybo
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: chimp78 on February 27, 2012, 11:53:35 PM
I know. http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94486.msg752544#msg752544

There is another option to do, but I still prefer to wait for the program. We have been waiting since this morning, at least, it is to me. If it is not ready today until tomorrow, I don't know what to say/do else, but to be forced to use aswclear to uninstall ALL Avast Versions or the one I posted above?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Vlk on February 27, 2012, 11:54:22 PM
It's coming soon - it's just being tested as we speak...
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Hermite15 on February 27, 2012, 11:56:26 PM
It's coming soon - it's just being tested as we speak...

nice thx ;)
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: chimp78 on February 27, 2012, 11:57:48 PM
Thank you. Hopefully, it will solve our problem. We will look forward to it.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: koam on February 28, 2012, 12:13:25 AM
I'd like to know if this fix just allows us to get the new Virus Definitions for v6?

Because of all the other reported issues with v7, I'd like to wait and upgrade after things have calmed down.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: TomTech71 on February 28, 2012, 12:25:22 AM
So, knowing how this is all going down is great for us monitoring this thread, but how is the general public going to know how to fix the Version 6 problem (much less the Version 7 mess)? I would expect that most won't even realize there is a fix. A lot of them will send there computers to 'Geek Squads' who probably won't have a clue either...

I have lots of clients out there that use Avast, due to my recommendation. I already am aware of one who has the Version 6 problem. I can inform them...but, what of the rest of the 'uninformed'?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: TomTech71 on February 28, 2012, 12:38:39 AM
(Followup on my last post) I find that the one client with the V6 problem had actually done the smart thing and uninstalled to reinstall. They state that nothing wants to install now.

Will this 'fix' clear that up as well?

Do I want to suggest them moving on to V7 with all the problems being shown?

I had updated a Win7 Pro to V7 first thing this morning (not knowing). Since then, it's had 2 BSOD episodes. BugCheck says Avast Virtualization was the reason.

I experienced Avast upgrading without permission yesterday on a WinXP Pro unit at home. I definitely hope this does not occur on any of the 25 win7 units running Avast Pro here at work.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: been on February 28, 2012, 12:58:57 AM
I decided that av software exists to give peace of mind and Avast no longer provides it. I successfully uninstalled with ASWClear and am now using MSE until I decide on a permanent solution (probably Eset). I've used Avast happily for years so this really is very sad.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: MsAdelle on February 28, 2012, 01:03:46 AM
Thank you VLK, I will wait for it to be ready.

been -  these things can and do happen. No antivirus software is above not having its little glitches here and there. Best to find out whats happened and then see what can be done to fix it. Most of the time the techs are aware of it but they need time to solve the glitch  :)
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: sedina on February 28, 2012, 01:18:36 AM
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94514.0

thanks,
Pavel
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: been on February 28, 2012, 01:26:14 AM
I understand what you say MsAdelle but Avast has just caused me too much stress the last few days. Like I said I'm very sad to be ditching software that I trusted so much for years until the end of last week.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: hardov on February 28, 2012, 02:07:29 AM
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94514.0

thanks,
Pavel

What is this?
this not the fix that we are waiting right??
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Lisandro on February 28, 2012, 02:14:24 AM
What is this?
this not the fix that we are waiting right??
No? What were you waiting for?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: hardov on February 28, 2012, 02:35:44 AM
What is this?
this not the fix that we are waiting right??
No? What were you waiting for?

Someone post this: I have version Avast Free version 6.0.1367 with update 120226-4.

This will now not auto-update or allow programme version updates.
It will also not allow uninstall-reinstall or repair. It will also not allow a manual update of definition files.
Both uninstall and updates fail with the error message attached.

I am remotely accessing this machine so I cannot use "aswclear" in safe mode either.

The computer is Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit SP1

Any suggestions ?

with thanks

And i have the same problem in my other computer.

So VLK post :

If avast got into the state where it "hangs" when you attempt to invoke an update (either virus definitions or program update) you will have to manually fix it by downloading the program I mentioned.

This happened to people who tried to invoke a PROGRAM update in the last ~12 hours (from within the avast UI).

Thanks
Vlk

So where is the fix?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Charyb-0 on February 28, 2012, 02:40:30 AM
Read up about 5 posts.  ::)


It is here. http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94514.0
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: hardov on February 28, 2012, 02:43:46 AM
Read up about 5 posts.  ::)


It is here. http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94514.0

well that fix doesnt fix anything in my other computer!

Any help?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: DavidR on February 28, 2012, 02:51:09 AM
If the fix reports you don't have the problem it was for, your problem is more likely to be this:
- The error you are getting, a fatal error on avast.setup will require a clean reinstall of whichever version that you have.

There is no repair option. I get the attached when I click on ADD/REMOVE:

I think you are going to have to do a clean install and may be quicker in the long run.

- if you want to retain avast6 you need to have saved the installation file or get a copy from filehippo.com, use the Mirror site yo download the last version of avast6 as their main site has the wrong link (it is also for avast7).

This is if you want to install avast7:
- Download the latest version of avast, 7.0.1407 http://files.avast.com/iavs5x/avast_free_antivirus_setup.exe (http://files.avast.com/iavs5x/avast_free_antivirus_setup.exe) and save it to your HDD, somewhere you can find it again (if you didn't save your last download). Use that when you reinstall.

- Download the avast! Uninstall Utility, aswClear.exe find it here (http://www.avast.com/uninstall-utility) and save it to your HDD (it has uninstall tools for 5.x, 6.0.x and 7.0.x).
  • 1. Now uninstall avast! (using add remove programs, if you can't do that, very likely, start from the next step), reboot.
  • 2. run the avast! Uninstall Utility from safe mode, first for 6.x if previously installed and then for 7.0, once complete reboot into normal mode.
  • 3. install the latest version, reboot.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: hardov on February 28, 2012, 03:18:52 AM
If the fix reports you don't have the problem it was for, your problem is more likely to be this:
- The error you are getting, a fatal error on avast.setup will require a clean reinstall of whichever version that you have.

There is no repair option. I get the attached when I click on ADD/REMOVE:

I think you are going to have to do a clean install and may be quicker in the long run.

- if you want to retain avast6 you need to have saved the installation file or get a copy from filehippo.com, use the Mirror site yo download the last version of avast6 as their main site has the wrong link (it is also for avast7).

This is if you want to install avast7:
- Download the latest version of avast, 7.0.1407 http://files.avast.com/iavs5x/avast_free_antivirus_setup.exe (http://files.avast.com/iavs5x/avast_free_antivirus_setup.exe) and save it to your HDD, somewhere you can find it again (if you didn't save your last download). Use that when you reinstall.

- Download the avast! Uninstall Utility, aswClear.exe find it here (http://www.avast.com/uninstall-utility) and save it to your HDD (it has uninstall tools for 5.x, 6.0.x and 7.0.x).
  • 1. Now uninstall avast! (using add remove programs, if you can't do that, very likely, start from the next step), reboot.
  • 2. run the avast! Uninstall Utility from safe mode, first for 6.x if previously installed and then for 7.0, once complete reboot into normal mode.
  • 3. install the latest version, reboot.

Yes is true ,  i reinstall avast, and no more problems, Thanks
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: DavidR on February 28, 2012, 03:24:38 AM
You're welcome.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Tobias4051 on February 28, 2012, 01:08:07 PM
There are two ways to solve the problem:

- uninstall using aswClear, and reinstall
- wait for a specialized program that will resolve the problem (we will be publishing it later today).

The problem happened because an invalid definition file was uploaded to our server, and was being sent out to clients. The program I mentioned will replace this bogus file with the correct one.

I apologize for the inconveniece.
Vlk

Hi,

Where did this file come from? Was it from outside of avast? Were computers that had this bogus file as the definition file vulnerable or unprotected?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: ady4um on February 28, 2012, 01:32:34 PM
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94514.0 (http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94514.0)
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Tobias4051 on February 28, 2012, 01:47:29 PM
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94514.0 (http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=94514.0)
Thanks, I got the fix from this page, and it worked for one computer.

When I clicked to run this fix on the other computer, it gave a message that the problem has now been fixed and did I still want to run the fix, I clicked no. Avast updates fine of both computers now.

I was wondering if the computers were unprotected during the time this incorrect definitions file was installed, was it harmful, or if the computers were vulnerable to malware that might still be there?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: REDACTED on February 28, 2012, 01:49:22 PM
Will it solve the problem of a sandbox (security check)  - You know that warning Sandbox jumps very often ... ?
Thx

Can anybody point me what I need to do about Sandbox problem and how to solve it?
I have send sample application on Sunday, but I think they have much to do those days ...
What else I can do, because I'm shareware author and need some solution regarding this problem.

I'm just asking for some word about AutoSandbox future, and what can I (as developer) do?
Someone told that digitally sign a exe will not solve problem, OK, but what can solve it?
I can not send each exe to Avast so they can "approve" that this exe is not suspicious.
Please advice

Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: DavidR on February 28, 2012, 01:52:47 PM
<snip>
I was wondering if the computers were unprotected during the time this incorrect definitions file was installed, was it harmful, or if the computers were vulnerable to malware that might still be there?

Essentially the only problem was the inability to update the signatures, etc. other than that the program should have worked as normal. You should have seen that in the avast tray icon rotating when things were scanned. Looking at the various stats you would also see the activity.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: ady4um on February 28, 2012, 02:01:20 PM
I was wondering if the computers were unprotected during the time this incorrect definitions file was installed

Although I'm just a user and not an Avast Team member, my understanding is that you computer was not "more in danger", generally speaking. Was still protected, but with an "older" database. Here I'd say that "older" is a _very_ relative word. If you are not catching the ultimate last hot latest malware that just came out (depending for example on the type of web sites you visit), then you should be fine (you were still protected, with a database some hours old).


@freecrm...,

I think that you need an answer from Avast Team only (not from anyone else). May I suggest looking for the "contact" page in the support website? There is nothing wrong in asking your very valid question here, but I think Avast Team should be able to answer you better through that method. Of course, maybe some Avast Team member could see your question and com up here to answer.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Tobias4051 on February 28, 2012, 02:06:24 PM
<snip>
I was wondering if the computers were unprotected during the time this incorrect definitions file was installed, was it harmful, or if the computers were vulnerable to malware that might still be there?

Essentially the only problem was the inability to update the signatures, etc. other than that the program should have worked as normal. You should have seen that in the avast tray icon rotating when things were scanned. Looking at the various stats you would also see the activity.
Thanks for the reply.
Because the definitions file had been called 'bogus' earlier, I wasn't sure if the file came from avast or not.
If the file did come from an outside source, the definitions that were loaded could have been false, avast might have been doing no good.
Is this something to worry about?

Quote
Although I'm just a user and not an Avast Team member, my understanding is that you computer was not "more in danger", generally speaking. Was still protected, but with an "older" database.
Can anyone confirm, was it just an older version on definitions from avast?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: DavidR on February 28, 2012, 02:16:37 PM
<snip quote>
@freecrm...,
I think that you need an answer from Avast Team only (not from anyone else). May I suggest looking for the "contact" page in the support website? There is nothing wrong in asking your very valid question here, but I think Avast Team should be able to answer you better through that method. Of course, maybe some Avast Team member could see your question and com up here to answer.

freecrm... has been given that advice before, in one of the many posts he has scattered around.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: ady4um on February 28, 2012, 02:17:40 PM
Is this something to worry about?

No ;)
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: REDACTED on February 28, 2012, 02:41:12 PM
freecrm... has been given that advice before, in one of the many posts he has scattered around.

I have posted question using contact form, and posted example app.
As I see, Avast team have lot of work regarding wrong upload of virus definition.
Because that, they are very busy and I understand - they can not answer to each ticket same day.
Because of that, I think that someone from Avast team watch this forum from time to time, and will see my question, and tell me:
you need this, this and this to avoid Sandbox message.

As you all know, I'm shareware author, and from Avast7 release to today, my software have been downloaded about 50 times (my estimation).
If I loos only one customer because of Avast popup's screen, it is enough for me.

I will not loos any customer because someone have changed rules and will not answer what to do (or have not time or whatever).
Maybe I do something wrong, but I have learned - always is better to do something, even wrong, as do nothing.

So people, who have some idea how to solve that problem ? :)
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: ady4um on February 28, 2012, 02:52:39 PM
@freecrm...,

You should quote correctly next time. As I already said, there is no problem with you posting the question.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: REDACTED on February 28, 2012, 03:12:21 PM
@freecrm...,

You should quote correctly next time. As I already said, there is no problem with you posting the question.

Not sure about your point. Please do not touch my messages if you can not help regarding my problem.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: joncjones on February 28, 2012, 03:50:57 PM
OK - in response to my original question which starts the thread:

http://public.avast.com/supp/FixUpdate.exe this worked perfectly for me - thanks guys.

J
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: wojahnhk on February 28, 2012, 04:32:59 PM
Ok, so I have the same problem with Avast as of yesterday, however, I can not get into safe mode on my computer (its a laptop with a broken screen so i had to hook it up to an external monitor).. I dont know what to do.. i would like to be protected, but it wont allow me to uninstall avast so that i can get it fixed.. any suggestions?
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: joncjones on February 28, 2012, 04:35:10 PM
This fix does not require safe mode. I just completed it via a remote access session.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: wojahnhk on February 28, 2012, 05:49:16 PM
This fix does not require safe mode. I just completed it via a remote access session.

how were you abl to do that.. mine wont let me.. i keep getting error messages
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: joncjones on February 28, 2012, 06:20:09 PM
just
ran the fix
allowed it to update itself
then restarted the computer (important i think)

then it was all fine
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: wojahnhk on February 28, 2012, 07:11:20 PM
ah.. i see.. well i'm in a pickle then cause it wont let me remove it.. the self-defense mode wont disable
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: DavidR on February 28, 2012, 07:26:15 PM
ah.. i see.. well i'm in a pickle then cause it wont let me remove it.. the self-defense mode wont disable

What is it that you are trying to do ?
As the self-defence module should only get involved if you are trying to modify or delete an avast file or trying to run aswclear.exe from normal mode and not safe mode.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: wojahnhk on February 28, 2012, 07:31:45 PM
i am trying to remove avast as I was one of the victims of yesterdays update bug.. its not running, it wont let me update, or remove it... and I can't even run the awsclear thing because the self-defense mode wont disable..
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: CraigB on February 28, 2012, 07:34:43 PM
i am trying to remove avast as I was one of the victims of yesterdays update bug.. its not running, it wont let me update, or remove it... and I can't even run the awsclear thing because the self-defense mode wont disable..
wojahnhk please try to run this fix first http://public.avast.com/supp/FixUpdate.exe
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: DavidR on February 28, 2012, 08:32:47 PM
i am trying to remove avast as I was one of the victims of yesterdays update bug.. its not running, it wont let me update, or remove it... and I can't even run the awsclear thing because the self-defense mode wont disable..

But how, if by the use of aswclear.exe, it has to be done from windows safe mode, where avast doesn't run (that is the purpose of safe mode), the self-defence module won't be running either so it won't be blocking aswclear.exe attempts to remove avast.

So if the fix as suggested doesn't resolve the problem, uninstall avast from add remove programs (if possible), then run aswclear.exe from safe mode, first for avast6 and then for avast7 (if previously installed). Reboot into windows normal mode and install avast.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: wojahnhk on February 29, 2012, 12:03:28 AM
i am trying to remove avast as I was one of the victims of yesterdays update bug.. its not running, it wont let me update, or remove it... and I can't even run the awsclear thing because the self-defense mode wont disable..
wojahnhk please try to run this fix first http://public.avast.com/supp/FixUpdate.exe

This doesn't work. I get an error message saying that my computer doesn't have that problem.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: wojahnhk on February 29, 2012, 12:06:59 AM
i am trying to remove avast as I was one of the victims of yesterdays update bug.. its not running, it wont let me update, or remove it... and I can't even run the awsclear thing because the self-defense mode wont disable..

But how, if by the use of aswclear.exe, it has to be done from windows safe mode, where avast doesn't run (that is the purpose of safe mode), the self-defence module won't be running either so it won't be blocking aswclear.exe attempts to remove avast.

So if the fix as suggested doesn't resolve the problem, uninstall avast from add remove programs (if possible), then run aswclear.exe from safe mode, first for avast6 and then for avast7 (if previously installed). Reboot into windows normal mode and install avast.

It wont let me uninstall from add/remove programs, and I tried going to safe mode, but as the laptop's main screen is broken, I can not see what I am doing there.. I only have about a 3 inch triangle of space in the top left corner that I can actually see on that screen. The only way I can use my computer is with an external monitor hooked up. And for some reason I can not use the external monitor in safe mode. So I guess I am just screwed and will have to wait till I get the money to either replace the laptop screen or buy a new computer.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Tgell on February 29, 2012, 12:58:55 AM
i am trying to remove avast as I was one of the victims of yesterdays update bug.. its not running, it wont let me update, or remove it... and I can't even run the awsclear thing because the self-defense mode wont disable..

But how, if by the use of aswclear.exe, it has to be done from windows safe mode, where avast doesn't run (that is the purpose of safe mode), the self-defence module won't be running either so it won't be blocking aswclear.exe attempts to remove avast.

So if the fix as suggested doesn't resolve the problem, uninstall avast from add remove programs (if possible), then run aswclear.exe from safe mode, first for avast6 and then for avast7 (if previously installed). Reboot into windows normal mode and install avast.

It wont let me uninstall from add/remove programs, and I tried going to safe mode, but as the laptop's main screen is broken, I can not see what I am doing there.. I only have about a 3 inch triangle of space in the top left corner that I can actually see on that screen. The only way I can use my computer is with an external monitor hooked up. And for some reason I can not use the external monitor in safe mode. So I guess I am just screwed and will have to wait till I get the money to either replace the laptop screen or buy a new computer.

With your external monitor hooked up, go into display settings and lower your resolution to something like 800 x600. Also change your refresh rate to something like 75HZ or below. Then go into safe mode. Does this work? Does your laptop have a key combination to enable the external monitor? If it does, try this in safe mode.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: wojahnhk on February 29, 2012, 02:21:30 AM
i am trying to remove avast as I was one of the victims of yesterdays update bug.. its not running, it wont let me update, or remove it... and I can't even run the awsclear thing because the self-defense mode wont disable..

But how, if by the use of aswclear.exe, it has to be done from windows safe mode, where avast doesn't run (that is the purpose of safe mode), the self-defence module won't be running either so it won't be blocking aswclear.exe attempts to remove avast.

So if the fix as suggested doesn't resolve the problem, uninstall avast from add remove programs (if possible), then run aswclear.exe from safe mode, first for avast6 and then for avast7 (if previously installed). Reboot into windows normal mode and install avast.

It wont let me uninstall from add/remove programs, and I tried going to safe mode, but as the laptop's main screen is broken, I can not see what I am doing there.. I only have about a 3 inch triangle of space in the top left corner that I can actually see on that screen. The only way I can use my computer is with an external monitor hooked up. And for some reason I can not use the external monitor in safe mode. So I guess I am just screwed and will have to wait till I get the money to either replace the laptop screen or buy a new computer.

With your external monitor hooked up, go into display settings and lower your resolution to something like 800 x600. Also change your refresh rate to something like 75HZ or below. Then go into safe mode. Does this work? Does your laptop have a key combination to enable the external monitor? If it does, try this in safe mode.


Thank you for trying to help, but unfortunately that did not work.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: Tgell on February 29, 2012, 02:53:16 AM
If you have XP, see if you can uninstall using VGA mode when the safe mode options appear. Do you have the option to do a system restore to a date before the install? Another option that may work is do download the 30 day trial of Revo Uninstaller Pro and see if that can do the uninstall.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: HellcatM on March 05, 2012, 03:26:10 AM
I'm having a different issue with a corrupt Avast install.  My father was having an issues with his computer where Yahoo messenger wouldn't connect and Windows updates wouldn't install.  I was trying to fix that when I noticed he had some Windows updates.  I tried to install them but kept getting an error.  I ran malwarebytes which found nothing then superantispyware which found a few but nothing major.  Also some of his icons went blank.  I saw the update for Avast so I went to update it and it seemed to update fine.  I went to reboot the system and the screen went blank and wouldn't boot into Windows.  I booted into safe mode and ran iobit uninstaller to uninstall Avast and it looked like it uninstalled fine.  I booted back into Windows no problem.  I uninstalled Yahoo messenger.  I also found the Avast uninstall utility and ran it for Avast 7, rebooted then 6 (thinking maybe there was some stuff left over).  I rebooted again, tried installing Avast 7 which seemed to install fine, opened it to look at it and the Protection Status tab was blank.  I rebooted and the screen went blank again.  So again booted into safe mode and ran the uninstall utility and again it seemed to uninstall fine.  I rebooted into Windows again and noticed a few things.  Windows Defender was disabled and Avast didn't uninstall completely leaving some locked folders.  I tried to unlock them with file assassin with no luck then tried lock hunter also with no luck.  I tried to install another anti-virus and it wouldn't install.   I tried installing Windows updates again with no luck then tried Fixit utilities got an error with them as well.  When I installed Avast again Windows Defender was enabled.  And before anyone asks I did try system restore but the restore latest restore point was the day before and when I ran it it didn't fix the issue.  I ran a couple online anti-virus' which found nothing.

I'm guessing he got a virus but either the damage is done and can't be fixed or I have to delete the rest of Avast.  From Defender being disabled when Avast is uninstalled and re-enabled when Avast is installed it makes me think some of my issues have to do with Avast.  Not being able to install updates or run Microsoft Fixit Utilities may not be Avasts problem.  I'm not sure if I have to reinstall Windows or if there is something I haven't thought about.  The only reason I haven't re-installed Windows is because there are a few programs he uses he can't find the disks for. 

If anyone can come up with any ideas I'd be happy.

Thank you,
Robert
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: rashutaarbl on March 12, 2012, 08:33:41 AM
Hi guys, I am having this problem for quite a few days now. I read some of the other users problems and I run the FixUpdate and it says "Your avast! installation doesn't seem to have the problem this fix is supposed to solve (code: 2). I also tried to remove via add/remove option on windows and it won't allow me and shows me this " Error reading product data from "C:\Program Files\AVAST Software\Avast\setup\". Setup cannot continue.

If anyone can help I'd be so happy.
Title: Re: Avast corrupted - will not upgrade or uninstall
Post by: CraigB on March 12, 2012, 09:11:20 AM
Read and follow the instuctions here http://www.avast.com/uninstall-utility to remove avast in safe mode, reboot to normal mode when completed and install the latest 7.0.1426.