OPCUG Help
Security
Detecting and Removing Viruses and Malware
ESET provides a scanner to perform an online scan using the browser. It is simplest to use with Internet Explorer, otherwise a download is required. This scanner will not remove the malware infection but has a high probability of identifying it without the malware disabling it's function, as could be the case with installed protection software. Actual removal remains to be accomplished by other means. Note: If you decide to use it and you already have an AV program installed and running, you must first temporarily disable the real time protection currently running. After the online ESET scan is done, then be sure to re-enable your real time protection.
Malwarebytes Forum can provide info and help in virus detection and removal. The basic tool is to be found at: http//www.malwarebytes.org/ .
Malwarebytes also makes use of the free software program "Hijack This" which extracts details about the suspect system so that experts can analyze and make recommendations.
Bleeping Computer is a very helpful web site. This is the introduction and registration page.
The Bleeping Computer Forums provide the vehicle for requesting help or reviewing the message trail of others who may have been helped.
Bleeping Computer ComboFix is a software program to permit use of Windows Command Line and Recovery Console to extract information from the suspect system to submit to the site experts for analysis and recommendations. The online AV scanners (ESET and Kaspersky) just do a scan. They do NOT remove any infections. The scan may take up to several hours, so be patient.
Warning: Be VERY CAREFUL with the Combo Fix program . Use only at the request of and under the supervision of a Bleeping Computer Expert.
The reason Combo Fix should only be used under the guidance of an expert is that it has no safeguards for undoing changes it makes to your system. Also, it is way too easy to check the wrong box and end up with a completely dead PC.
Virus Total is a free independent service that permits you to submit a suspected file for analysis and recommendations. Virtually all anti virus suppliers and all of the major commercial companies participate.
Internet Safety
This is a 40 page PDF document on how to keep your computer safe on the Internet. Click here to see the document: Internet Safety
Wireless Internet Security
On March 17, 2008 our own Judie Coleman gave an interesting presentation on Wireless Internet Security. She demonstrated how there are tools available to persons, bent on malevolence, to attack unprotected home wireless networks. She also demonstrated how to maximize the security provided by a router. If you missed it or failed to get the handout, click on Wireless .