[jangy]

Hi all,
I am getting a huge Hard drive to use as a central one for my desktop and laptop. But, I think I have some spyware issues on my computer (since the system32 window opens on each start). Are there any specific precautions to take when I copy my files from my desktop to the new hard drive before I reformat it?
Also, should I install any protection software on the desktop and laptop after reformatting to avoid this shit?

 

[SDSilverM3]

Arjang, you can start by downloading the typical spyware scanners such as Spybot and Ad Aware. I would recommend running one after the other to see what it finds on your current system and remove any critical items.

If you don't already have Anti-Virus software make sure you install a copy on the new load of Windows. If you don't have something to load I can help you out in that dept.

You will only need to backup your data files and not things such as your Program Files or Operating System files. Your spyware problems will most likely not carry over to the new load of Windows unless you actually execute something that originally installed it in the first place.

If in doubt just do a complete backup of all directories on your current hard drive assuming you have the space.

 

[jangy]

Thanks for the reply. All I will be backing up is pictures, files, etc. That is it, but I didn't know if any buggers could hide in there.
The other thing is I just uninstalled a bunch of carp today and I think I may just have an issue with the system looking for something at startup. Is there a manual way to deal with that?

 

[SDSilverM3]

Spyware and other malware rarely hide in music or picture files. So I wouldn't worry too much about that.

You might want to check this out to see if this relates to your problem regarding the system32 problem.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/170086

 

[jangy]

I think I got it. I went to line item 260 of:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

It seems to be gone.

 

[SDSilverM3]

:thumbup:

 

[jangy]

Should I get that spyware thing and run it? Is there software I can buy that can check my shit? I downloaded a free regedit checker that says I have 200 issues and wants to sell me the software to fix it. Is that shit legit?

 

[SDSilverM3]

Just download the two I suggested. They should work fine and are free.

 

[jangy]

Will do, thanks for your help!!