[Resolved] Same problem as (re: URL blocked, can not open a browser now? )

[SafeSurf]

How is your machine behaving now?  Any problems?  If not, Essexboy can begin to remove his tools, but we need to know if you still are having problems.

[markhpca]

Everything seems OK now.

Thanks again.

[essexboy]

Subject to no further problems   

I will remove my tools now and give some recommendations, but, I would like you to run for 24 hours or so and come back if you have any problems

 Now the best part of the day ----- Your log now appears clean  :thumbsup:

A good workman always cleans up after himself so..The following will implement some cleanup procedures as well as reset  System Restore points:


Click Start > Run  and copy/paste the following bolded text into the Run box and click OK:

ComboFix /Uninstall

Run OTS and hit the cleanup button.  It will remove all the programmes we have used plus itself. 

We will now confirm that your hidden files are set to that, as some of the tools I use will change that

• Click Start.
• Open My Computer.
• Select the Tools menu and click Folder Options.
• Select the View Tab.
• Under the Hidden files and folders heading select Do not show hidden files and folders.
  
• Click Yes to confirm.
• Click OK.

   Your Java is out of date. Older versions have vulnerabilities that malware can use to infect your system. Please follow these steps to remove older version of Java components and upgrade the application.

Upgrading Java:

• Go to[color="#FF0000"] this site[/color]  and click Do I have Java
  
• It will check your current version and then offer to update to the latest version

SPRING CLEAN
 
Download and run Puran Disc Defragmenter
For the first run I would recommend a boot defrag and disk check




Now that you are clean, to help protect your computer in the future I recommend that you get the following free programmes:
 
Malwarebytes.  Update and run weekly to keep your system clean

Download and install FileHippo update checker and run it monthly it will show you which programmes on your system need updating and give a download link

It is critical to have both a firewall and anti virus to protect your system and to keep them updated.

To keep your operating system up to date visit

• Microsoft Windows Update
  

To learn more about how to protect yourself while on the internet read our little guide  How did I get infected in the first place ?
Keep safe  :wave:

[SafeSurf]

In the meantime, here are a few suggestions in addition to the ones given to you by Essexboy to keep you and your machine safer in the future:

1.   Keep your definitions up to date for both Avast and MBAM. 
2.   Keep all your shields on with Avast.
3.   Update MBAM prior to scanning, then do Quick scans.
4.   Keep your MS/Windows Updates current.
5.   Add security related Add-on’s to your browsers for safer browsing.  See my Signature as an example.
6.   Use common sense when browsing and do not go to risky sites.
7.   When downloading software, read what you are clicking and do not download adware toolbars which are commonly opted in; look before you click or do a Custom install to avoid putting unwanted toolbars on your machine that lead to spyware tracking or adware.
8.   Check to see that your software is up to date with the free Secunia Software Inspector http://secunia.com/vulnerability_scanning/personal/ since software is changing all the time.  This site gives you the vendor's direct download link making it easy to upgrade your software.  Many of us here scan our machines weekly.

Remember to post back in 24 hours to let us know if everything is still running OK; if not post back sooner.

[markhpca]

OK everything is cleaned up as instructed and all is running fine now for 3 days.

Thanks again for everyones help.

[SafeSurf]

You're welcome.  Please go back to the first open post in this topic, click the modify button in that Post and change the title/subject, add [Resolved] to the beginning of the title so this thread can be closed. 

Feel free to come back any time you need help, to learn something new, or just to ask questions.  We are here 24/7 for your convenience.  Thank you for allowing us to assist you.