How Do You Approach Virus Activity.

[Mr Bigman]

I take different approaces to these pests like:

I usually scan for rootkits with scanners from MacFee and ususally use smithFraud to scan or fix registry and use Combofix to fix issues. I use stinger if needed and than go with Hyjackthis to fix hyjacks, than i will run a full scan with latest virus scanner and spyware scanners too.

Im sure some of you use these tools but what does a better job at getting in their and fixing rootkits and restoring admin rights from hyjacks and what scanner to use?

[methimpikehoses]

I only use spybot and prayer.

[-=DVS=-]

Fixing stuff is frustrating if it gets really bad id say reformat but that's to primitive , i use Acronis 11 and restore backup of Windows partition saves the trouble of reinstalling all the junk.
But you probably fixing client's pc meh :p

[crainger]

Format

Reinstall

[SH64]

Yep scanning with multiple programs like Norton anti-virus , avg anti-rootkit , anti-spyware & then combo-fix.
"format , resinstall" is only for nubs.

[six_storm]

We use Symantec at all of our clients and honestly, I think it's a slacking anti-virus program. Spyware pieces like AntiVirus XP 200x always seen to by-pass the "Real Time Protection". AVG has always worked better than Symantec IMO, but another engineer always recommends Trend Micro. I've never used it but I've heard good things.

[bob saget]

Format

Reinstall

nub

[nekrosoft13]

weekly full back-up of C and D drive using Vista Build in Back-up and Restore app.

C = OS
D = Program/Documents

[XDanger]

I don't install Virus' in the first place...

[Monolyth]

I don't install Virus' in the first place.

+1

Haven't had a virus in years.

[XDanger]

+1

Haven't had a computer virus in years.

Fixe...

[Monolyth]

Fixe...

Tru dat, your mom says hi. :D

Anyways, back in the day when I was about 18 I did manage to get a computer virus. After that ordeal I realized that the effort placed in installing virus protection, keeping it updated, running it, etc wasn't worth it. In the event of a virus going through the paces of removing and being 100% confident of its removal proved to be more time consuming and stressful then simply being more skeptical with my browsing and downloads.

For those not in the know I still recommend they get virus protection because they can't or won't be more cautious online.

[XDanger]

A work colleague was saying yesterday he needs to update his virus protection and has decided not to update Norton online to the newer version,

No he's going to buy it retail as they sometimes have it on offer :banghead:

[Medion]

I've never had a virus...ever. However, I do remain proactive. I don't use plain scanners anymore, since they can only help you after the fact. I use:

Avira - Protects from and scans for rootkits and viruses, excellent detection rate, free.

Spybot - Great malware removal and blocking (immunization)

Windows Defender - Blocks most adware

I just keep those 3 up to date, and scan every so often. I also use Adblock Plus (Firefox) to reduce my chances of getting adware. If I were an IE user, I'd use IE7Pro.

[Wolfhound]

Nod32, firefox with adblock plus and noscript extensions