System Tool Virus Removal XP
When it comes to scams, those crooks will stop at nothing, as the family of so called ‘security’ tools proves of which the System tool virus removal XP proves. This virus is part of a family of viruses known as false anti-virus software; named such because it cons people into believing that they are infected with viruses that only purchasing the false software will cure. The System tool virus removal XP first struck XP Operating systems (hence the name), but has also reincarnated to hit Windows Vista and 7 with equal aplomb.
History of the System Tool Virus Removal XP
Much like the other viruses in this family, the system tool virus removal XP was created to look like a legitimate Windows or other anti-virus program by hackers who wanted money with little work. The original virus usually came as a result of going through an infected site and picking up the virus on the way which would then offer to do a free scan on your computer and inform you that you are infected with a ton of viruses. However, the newer tools are often passed through infected downloads and by clicking on a link offering free scanning tools and anti-virus software (usually in the form of pop-up ads). All three ways of getting infected are now possible.
System tool virus removal xp
What the System Tool Virus Removal XP Does
The System Tool virus removal XP offers to scan your computer for viruses for free, but instead, dumps a Trojan virus into your hard drive. This virus then runs every time you turn on your computer and floods you with warnings and infection notices, rounded off with a push to purchase a virus cleaning software program. The system tool virus removal tool then locks you out of several key places, including your browser, registry and start manager so that you cannot go in manually and delete it. This of course effectively renders your computer a hostage of the virus and pretty much a paperweight for most users-if a paperweight could be covered in advertisements!
How to Get Rid of the System Tool Virus Removal XP
Unfortunately, given that this virus locks you out of your browser, task manager and other ways to access it, you have to be a bit sneaky. First of all, turn off your computer and then turn it on and go to SAFE MODE IN NETWORKING (do this by hitting F8 while the computer is booting up so you can switch modes). From here, you still have limited access, but the virus won’t be able to interfere. Then do the following:
• Download/purchase a program to get rid of viruses and spyware. Malbytes’ is free, Doctor Spyware protects you afterwards… there are lots of them out there and choosing one will mostly be a matter of preference.
• Run the software on your infected computer and make sure to delete the System Tools program that will pop up after the scan
• Scan your computer again in NORMAL MODE to make sure everything is fine
• If this doesn’t work, you can be sneakier still. Download the software onto a clean computer, move it to a flash drive and then move it to the infected computer via the flash drive
You can also go in and manually remove the virus, but you should only do this if you are a highly experienced computer person because the virus can be hard to get rid of and if you don’t do it right, it will simply replicate itself and grow back again.
The System Tool Virus removal scam is a fairly problematic one because it effectively holds your computer hostage until you hand over your credit card information and then you will see unknown charges showing up as the crooks steal your money. But this virus can be killed off as long as you download good anti-virus software and then be smart about your downloads and the sites you visit! Stomp the system tool virus removal XP flat and then protect your computer with good anti-virus software.
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