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October 17th, 2004 13:00
Multiple Problems with Windows XP..Help
I have a Dimension 8250 with windows xp. I seem to be having alot of problems with certain files. First, when I open my xp account, a box comes up that says "Windows cannot open file" the file says "ffgvv". Select program to open it.
I also noticed on my desktop there is an icon that says "shellpar" that comes up with the same box as above when I open it.
Another box keeps opening up that says SHVwCtl browser (not sure if this is what it is) cannot be found.
When I try to do a system restore, there are no dates and when I go to run and type in scanreg /restore, it says it cannot find it.
When I try to post a message in this forum on my computer, I can type in the subject, but I cannot type anything in this box, there is no cursor. ( i am using another computer to post this message)
Last, but not least, when I try to open internet explorer, all I get is an "about:blank page". I cannot open my hotmail account and some links do not work. When I click on them, nothing happens.
I think I might have a virus, but I am not sure. Please Help!
janine
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Flooby
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October 17th, 2004 13:00
Among some other problems, you've been hijacked by malware, which is somewhat similar to a virus, but not exactly the same thing. About:blank is a particularly nasty thing to get rid of, and I've found that the best way (if not the quickest) is to just format the drive and reinstall Windows. This is a lot easier if you have a good image to restore to, but even if you don't, given the multiplicity of error messages/problems you have going on there, it may be the most practical. You also need to get a good malware removal tool and run it regularly, as the Immunization feature in Spybot Search and Destroy (for example) should have prevented the hijack problem you're experiencing.
You might also want to make sure you don't have "Show hidden files and folders" selected in Folder Options, as that may have something to do with some of the files showing up on your desktop.
You might get some other suggestions by posting this in the somewhat more appropriate Virus/Spyware Information conference, but I'd be willing to bet that, given the failure of your System Restore option, your best bet is going to be to format and start over, and to then make sure you install all Critical Updates/Service Packs, read up on preventing malware, and practice safer surfing habits.