Error Message

[sekharr]

Just installed Avast 4 Home edition (running Win98SE), configured settings, then ran it, first detected w32.Licum virus, after clearing asked to reboot, now I get this message on starting Avast: "avast detected unauthorised modification of this program file (c:\program files\Alwil Software\avast4\ashsimpl.exe). Continuing can be dangerous - Run the program anyway?"
What do I do. I tried running anyway, it seemed to work OK, but is there a problem? I am new to Avast, been using Norton for years, Appreciate any help, thanks in advance.

[ardvark]

Hi sekharr...

It's possible that the virus modified the file you mentioned, in which case it will have to be replaced by performing Avast's repair function. Here are more details concerning this virus...

http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.licum.html

Before repairing Avast, perform an online scan to make sure the virus has been dealt with....

http://housecall.trendmicro.com/

Best Regards...

[sekharr]

Hi: Thanks for the quick reply. Now it gets a little complicated. My PC is not connected to internet , I downloaded the avast installation file elsewhere & moved it to my PC through a memory stick. So I really cant check trendmicro for housecall. How do I repair avast? By reinstallaing? Incidentally what is the procedure for manual updating?

[ardvark]

Hi sekharr...

To access the repair function, click on the "Add/Remove" icon in the Control Panel and highlight Avast, then click remove. Although, if the virus is still active in your system, it may not do much good. There doesn't seem to be a standalone removal tool for this particular bug...I've checked.

You could also download and install a copy of Hijack This and submit a log as another possible way to see if the virus is still embedded. You can download a copy here...

http://www.majorgeeks.com/download3155.html

You can download manual updates for Avast here...

http://www.avast.com/eng/update_avast_4_vps.html

Best Regards...