After spending a lot of time fixing the problem w/ the Smart Security Background and the double-icons...I'm still experiencing some aftermath that I'd like to get rid of. I'm unable to:
-actually change the desktop (under 'Properties' then 'Desktop')
-view my wireless network connections (so bizarre)
Also, I find that my computer speakers do not play as loudly (at max volume) as before all of this. It seems far-fetched, but is there any chance this is related (I won't put anything past these bastards!)
thanks to everyone for your help. If I could fix these issues (especially the internet problem), I'd be so grateful!