Member Avatar for Bart80

I am having problems removing some spyware from machine. I have tried running AShampoo Anti-Spyware2, Spyware doctor along with also running AVG for good measure.

The Spyware comes up in a Window named Targeted, which does seem to still be running through IE.

Ive tried using Process Explorer which has really pinpointed the issue, but was wondering if anyone had advice on how I might get rid of this exteremly annoying apyware.

Im runing XP sp2 with IE6. Any more info required just let me know.

Thanks in advance... !!

Bart

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Dani AI

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This thread shows a classic, persistent IE‑resident adware case. did well to trace the running component; community input from , and pointed toward on‑system scanners and manual inspection. The suggestions below expand on that troubleshooting with verification, persistence checks and practical next steps so the system stays clean.

First, verify with up‑to‑date on‑demand scanners and a rootkit check. Run a full update and full scan with a reputable on‑demand product (for example, Malwarebytes) and follow with a dedicated rootkit tool such as Kaspersky’s TDSSKiller if anything looks like a kernel/rootkit infection. If the infection resists, scan from a clean environment (bootable rescue disk) so the malware cannot hide in memory. Disable System Restore before major cleanups, then re‑enable and create a clean restore point afterward.

Next, look for persistence mechanisms that scanners miss. Use Autoruns to list everything that runs at startup (services, scheduled tasks, BHOs, browser helper objects, shell extensions) and remove entries you can verify as malicious. Check the Hosts file, IE proxy settings, installed programs, Services, and Scheduled Tasks. Run sfc /scannow to repair any tampered system files. Back up the registry before editing and be cautious removing entries manually.

After removal, treat credentials and the network as potentially compromised: change passwords from a clean machine, scan other PCs on the LAN, enable automatic Windows updates and firewall, and move away from unsupported software (IE6/XP are high‑risk). If odd behavior persists, collect logs (Autoruns output, scanner logs) and seek specialist help — those logs make remote diagnosis far quicker. If the system still behaves inconsistently, a clean reinstall is often the fastest, most certain cure.

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Member Avatar for Bart80

I have tried both of what you suggested with no luck.

Member Avatar for gerbil

Naturally enough. Defender can't .. never mind. You are in the wrong forum; cart your plaint over to Viruses n Nasties, read and follow the top sticky. Post there.

Member Avatar for hungry_for_info

he said "spyware".... defender is a start for knocking out basic spyware.

Member Avatar for caperjack

he said "spyware".... defender is a start for knocking out basic spyware.

Yes this is truebut no better than the ones all ready tried.
I would suggest moving as stated above,and would also get trojanhunter and run it .
http://www.misec.net/
get the trojanhunter updates here .

Member Avatar for Bart80

I have finally got rid of this nasty piece of spyware.

I downloaded the latest beta of spybot - search and destroy,

Ran it in safemode and bingo.

No more spyware, thanks for all your help guys.

Bart

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