Pop Up Message: Add ON With A Bad Reputation

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I got an Avast popup message on my old PC which advised me that an add-on with a "bad reputation" should be removed (I did not write down the exact details). I said ok and it went ahead, then asked for a reboot. The computer now fails to boot Windows, crashing a few seconds into each attempt. Windows Restore is unable to automatically repair itself and I am still working out the best course of action (whilst trying to suppress my dark feelings towards Avast).

I am also left wondering whether the popup was a genuine Avast message or whether it was some kind of malware. If the former, Avast is meant to protect my system, not destroy it. If the latter, how did it get past Avast in the first place?

The system is Windows Vista Ultimate, regularly updated and historically trouble free. It is a 2007 HP Pavilion which is now my back up computer. Avast Free version has been installed on it since day 1.

Any advice or comments would be appreciated. 

[Eddy]

Can you still boot in safe mode ?

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Thanks for responding, Eddy. No, I can't get into Windows at all now and it happened following a reboot required by Avast.

I am probably going to have to reinstall windows but my main question to this forum is whether the pop up message (about an "add-on with a bad reputation") really was from Avast and if so, why did it destroy my OS?

 

[Eddy]

Although performing a clean installation of Windows now and then is a good idea, I would not do it yet.

https://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=53253.0
Scroll down to "If you cannot  Boot the computer" and follow the instructions.

The message you have gotten seems to be legitimate one from avast,
but without a screenshot and/or more other information is no possible to tell.

Removing a add-on with the avast browser cleanup utility (BCU), should not have a effect on the OS.
It can be coincidence or it can be a flaw in the BCU.

Please attach the BCU log to your next post as well as the other logs.

[essexboy]

Some addons have drivers which they should not do

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Eddy
Essexboy

Thank you very much for your responses. I have recovered my computer and I very much appreciate your comments and willingness to help.

Best regards.

 

[Eddy]

You're welcome.