Windows error "Automatic updates not enabled" and ad-ware pop-ups, how do I eliminate these?

Question

Hi -

Everytime I log on to my Windows Vista OS based desktop I am getting an error stating that "Automatic updates are not enabled" on your computer and i am asked to go to System --> Automatic updates to reset it. However the next time I log on the problem persists. Internet access to common sites remains disabled until automatic update setting is reset.

I have also started getting malicious pop-ups even while I am not browsing the web. Are these co-related? How do I fix these?

I do not have another copy of the OS on a disk (which I have lost 3 years ago!!), so reinstalling the OS may not be an option.

I do have a current subscription to McAfee Security center installed but the scan in Normal mode does not detect any virus / spyware.

The computer is a stand along PC connected through a service provider to the Internet.

Please help.

Answer 1

I would have to say that the pop-ups are indicative of an infection, and finding the Automatic Updates turned off is, also.

If you suspect you have an infection, there are several things you must do.  Unfortunately, if you find one infection, it is highly likely you have another one. A virus, trojan or worm are all different types of infections/malware and there are some great FREE programs that can help you.

First, clean up (delete) your cookies, temp files and temporary internet files. I prefer to use Ccleaner (available at www.filehippo.com) to do this, rather than the built-in DISK CLEANUP. If you want to use Disk Cleanup, you can find it if you:

- Double-Click on My Computer to open it up

- RIGHT-click on your C: drive

- Choose PROPERTIES and then click on the DISK CLEANUP button

- When done, reboot your computer.

Delete these files daily or run Ccleaner every day right before you shut your computer down.

2 - You should also have a good anti-virus program to help protect your computer. AVG FREE is an excellent anti-virus program, which can be downloaded from  www.download.com.  You might also choose Avast or Avira, both also free programs from www.download.com.

3 -Since NONE of the anti-spyware/anti-adware programs are 100% accurate in finding and removing spyware, you need at least two programs which you will run one after the other, not at the same time.

There are three excellent free ones:

--Spybot, Search and Destroy

--Ad-Aware

--Spyware Blaster

All are available FREE from www.download.com

You will need to download, install, update (and IMMUNIZE in Spybot) and run them, one at a time. Be careful with the NAME of these programs - there are "look-alikes" with very similar names, that are in fact spyware themselves! Reboot after you install each one!

After this current infection is cleared up, be sure to run both of the above programs at least once a week if you are on the internet frequently and/or like to download music or files.

NOTE: Some infections prevent your from downloading the above programs. You may have to use a clean computer to download the programs and copy them to a thumb drive or CD. Then transfer the install files to the infected computer and run.

--Occasionally you will not be able to run these programs without being in SAFE MODE.  To get there, reboot your computer and tap the F8 key, repeatedly until a menu comes up.  You want to choose SAFE MODE WITH NETWORKING.

4 -You should also have a good firewall to help protect your computer. Zone Alarm makes a totally free version (watch you don't download the 30-day free trial of the paid version). You can download this from the manufacturer at www.zonelabs.com <>http://www.zonelabs.com>

HTH : )

Good luck!

Answer 2

Download Kaspersky Internet Security and it can be a trial. Scan your computer and delete the junk on there. Kaspersky is the best and doesn't slow down your computer www.kaspersky.com

Answer 3

Your best start is to read to this forum -

http://www.castlecops.com/HijackThis.htm...

Which will walk you thru the tools listed -

http://wiki.castlecops.com/Malware_Remov...

One important thing is the fact that you should completely update the Operating System and ALL of the patches.  If your machine is patched for the vulnerability on the HD, then YOU cannot get infected.  It is the more proactive approach (patching your machine, keeping your software updated, using the most current firmware and drivers).  AV is ALWAYS reactive!

If you need any help (especially if the forum is slow), please let me know!

Good Luck!

Answer 4

You should use avg free edition it will track and help delete any threats that might be on your pc and try microsoft updates its like the same thing go to microsoft.com For avg go to download.com and search avg free edition.