[spikeymike]

How Did I Get A Virus?

Spoiler:

Originally Posted by divinelord

Can we please add this to the sticky:
If your browsing dodgy site(s) on the internet or use P2P, its YOUR fault your infected.

Too many people say windows sucks because of viruses without realising anything and this is coming from a Mac user

Yes, some people very quickly jump to the conclusion that Windows is to blame for viruses. But how can it? YOU are the one using Windows; you are responsible for whatever happens.

Source of Viruses

- P2P (Peer to Peer) i.e. Bitcomet, Limewire, uTorrent
- Pop ups that make you think you have loads of viruses.
- Keygens/Cracks/Patches often used to pass activation of software often contain a trojan(s).
- Sometimes maybe even a link i.e. You think one of your friends have sent you a trustworthy link on MSN Live Messenger and you click on it, then you realise (or not realise) it’s dodgy.
- Even something like this, you can see it's fake, just look at the URL/Address box. (Click on it to enlarge)

Spoiler:

How To Remove Viruses In General

Spoiler:

Since quite a few folk get viruses now and again, to make things much simpler I've made this thread so everyone gets the same message.

(You can update the virus defintions first before going into Safe mode if you wish, If you don't have any protection,
I'd suggest that you install AVG/Avast and Malwarebytes (Links are in spoiler below: Anti Virus Only).)

1. Run your computer in Safe Mode with Networking*. Restart your computer, immediately turned on press F8 a few times to see
the boot options then choose Safe Mode with networking.

*Safe mode has reduced functions so it's easier to remove things whilst they are disabled. (You can update the virus definitions
before going into safe mode if you happen to have trouble connecting to the internet)

2. Run your anti virus, make sure it has the latest virus definitions, then run a full system scan with BOTH AVG/Avast! & Malwarebytes.

3. Once finished restart.

4. If problems remain, Use HijackThis and post the log report on TSR.

How to post HiJack Log Report

Note: Never have more than 1 anti virus active at any one time, they will interfere.

Free Software

Anti Virus Only (Except 1 or 2, read description)

Spoiler:

Microsoft Security Essentials [Recommended]
+ Microsoft Security Essentials provides real-time protection for your home PC that guards against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.
Clicky: Microsoft

AVG Anti-Virus + Spyware Free Edition [Recommended]
+ AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 8.0 provides only base level protection against viruses, spyware and safe searching.
Includes combined Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware protection engine, LinkScanner Search-Shield safe search protection, plus the AVG Security Toolbar.

Clicky: AVG

avast! 4 Home Edition [Recommended]
+ avast! 4 Home Edition is a complete antivirus solution, fully able to find computer viruses, to create and check the integrity of programs installed, to test executed programs and opened documents, to test and check email and other functions. Scanning is also available in the shell extension and screen server.

Clicky: Avast!

Avira AntiVir Personal - FREE Antivirus
+ Protects your computer against dangerous viruses, worms, Trojans and costly dialers.

Clicky: Avira

Comodo Internet Security = Comodo AntiVirus + Comodo Firewall (Free)
+ Comodo Internet Security has all the functionality of a paid AV without the price. It eliminates ALL known Viruses, Worms and Trojans from desktops and networks.

Clicky: Comodo

BitDefender v10 (Free)
+ Protects your PC in real time from known viruses, spyware and other malware with hourly updates. Monitors and prevents spyware threats in real-time

Clicky: BitDefender

Spyware Terminator + Antivirus
+ Spyware Terminator prevents spyware from infecting your computer. Extended detection of malware during scans and within the Real-Time Shield. Antivirus Protection Included.

Clicky: Spyware Terminator

Anti Spyware/Malware Only

Spoiler:

Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware [Recommended]
+ Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware is an anti-malware application that can thoroughly remove even the most advanced malware. It includes a number of features, including a built in protection monitor that blocks malicious processes before they even start.

Clicky: Malwarebyte's Anti-Malware

Spybot - Search & Destroy [Recommended]
+ Removes spyware, a relatively new kind of threat not yet covered by common anti-virus applications.

Clicky: Spybot

Ad-Aware 2008 Free
+ Protect yourself against identity theft, online fraud, and other cyber crimes with the world's most popular anti-spyware.

Clicky: Ad-Aware

SUPERAntiSpyware FREE Edition
+ Detect and Remove Spyware, Adware, Malware, Trojans, Dialers, Worms, KeyLoggers, HiJackers, Parasites, Rootkits and many other types of threats.

Clicky: SUPERAntiSpy

Firewall Only

Spoiler:

ZoneAlarm Basic Firewall
+ Guards the network perimeter and prevents malware from sending your information out (Inbound and Outbound Protection) as well as making you 'invisible' to hackers (Stealth Mode)

Clicky: ZoneAlarm

Ashampoo Firewall
+ Monitors all your computer's network activity and protects you against both incoming and outgoing connections. Get full protection in seconds with Easy Mode and the Configuration Assistant. Self-explanatory user interface. Very small program that uses minimum memory and resources. One-click panic button for emergencies that lets you block all traffic, for example if you are under attack or suspect that a malicious program is active.

Clicky: Ashampoo

Agnitum Outpost Firewall
+ Basic Firewall Protection: Standard packet and application filtering safeguard your computer from unwanted communications. Connections Monitoring: Lets you see network activity in real time, to help define inappropriate connections and close them right away. Surfing Protection: Maintains your privacy on the Internet, keeps browser protected from Internet dangers.

Clicky: Agnitum

Comodo Firewall
+ Comodo Firewall is your first step in keeping hackers, viruses, and malware out of your PC. Featuring Default Deny Protection, our Firewall checks an extensive list of over two million known PC-friendly applications. If it's not there, Comodo Firewall lets you know before opening your PC's door.

Clicky: Comodo

Premium Services

Note: These prices are quite old and can be bought for cheaper elsewhere or check on the anti virus site. eBuyer

Spoiler:

avast! 4 Professional antivirus, anti-spyware & anti-rootkit
+ avast! 4 Professional Edition is a collection of award winning, high-end technologies that work in perfect synergy, having one common goal: to protect your system and valuable data against computer viruses, spyware and rootkits. It represents a best-in-class solution for any Windows-based workstation.

Free of charge for a 60-day trial period. 1 license, 1 year = US$39.95

Clicky: Avast Pro

Kaspersky Anti Virus 2009
+ Protects from all types of malware and spyware. Scans files, email messages and Internet traffic. Protects instant messengers (ICQ, MSN). Updates automatically. Proactive protection from unknown threats. Scans OS and applications for vulnerabilities. Disables links to malware sites and much more....

1 license, 1 year = £29.99

Clicky: Kaspersky AntiVirus 09

Kaspersky Internet Security 2009
+ Same as Kaspersky Anti Virus 2009 but with a firewall and some additional security features like Two-way personal firewall, Safe Wi-Fi and VPN connections and Intrusion prevention system.

1 license, 1 year = £39.99

Clicky: Kaspersky IS 09

Trend Micro Anti Virus + Anti Spyware
+ Trend Micro AntiVirus + AntiSpyware is the essential security you need to safeguard all your data and files. With automatic scans, updates and outbreak alerts, you can rest easy knowing you have systematic, ongoing protection against the latest malicious viruses, worms, Trojan horse programs, and spyware.

1 license, 1 year = Click renew and see?

Clicky: Trend Micro Anti Virus + Anti Spyware

Trend Micro Internet Security
+ Trend Micro Internet Security provides smart, up-to-date protection for your home network against present and future threats without slowing down your PC. Enhanced parental controls help you take charge of where and when your children go online. Trend Micro Internet Security safeguards your computer and personal information against latest threats.

1 license, 1 year = £44.95

Clicky: Trend Micro Internet Security

Trend Micro Internet Security Pro
+ Trend Micro Internet Security Pro provides the most comprehensive protection available for your personal and financial information -- whether you’re at home or on the road. Smart security features safeguard your personal and financial information from hackers and identity thieves. Proactive defense against present and future threats. Tools to optimize your PC performance

1 license, 1 year = £54.95

Clicky: Trend Micro Internet Security Pro

AVG Anti-Virus plus Firewall
+ Antivirus, antispyware and firewall protection for Windows from the world's most trusted security company. Use the Internet with confidence in your home or small office. Protection against viruses, spyware, adware and hackers.

1 license, 1 year = £34.99

Clicky: AVG Anti-Virus plus Firewall

AVG Internet Security
+ Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware, Anti-Spam, Web Protection & Firewall. Comprehensive protection for Windows against all online threats from the world's most trusted security company. Use the Internet with confidence in your home or small office.

1 license, 1 year = £39.99

Clicky: AVG Internet Security

McAfee VirusScan Plus
+ Essential, Easy-to-Use PC Protection with Powerful Web Site Safety Advisor. Anti-virus, Anti-spyware, Firewall & Web Site Safety Ratings. Anti-virus, anti-spyware, and SiteAdvisor protect you from malicious software. Firewall blocks outsiders from hacking into your PC. SiteAdvisor (UNIQUE!) rates web site safety before you click with red, yellow or green colors

1 license, 1 year = £39.99

Clicky: McAfee VirusScan Plus

McAfee Total Protection
+ Ultimate,Easy-to-Use PC Protection with Powerful Web Site Safety Advisor. Icludes Anti-virus, Anti-spyware, Anti-spam, Anti-phishing, Two-way Firewall, Advanced Web Site Safety Ratings, Identity Protection, Parental Controls, Data Backup.

3 license, 1 year = £59.99

Clicky: McAfee Total Protection

Antivirus Protection with ESET NOD32
+ Antivirus protection is spelled "NOD32." Built on the award-winning ThreatSense® engine, ESET NOD32 Antivirus software proactively detects and eliminates more viruses, trojans, worms, adware, spyware, phishing, rootkits and other Internet threats than any program available.

Free 30 day trial, 1 licence 1 year = £39.95

Clicky: Antivirus Protection with ESET NOD32

ESET Smart Security
+ With a personal firewall, antispam, and the same antivirus and antispyware protection delivered by ESET NOD32® Antivirus, ESET Smart Security is the most comprehensive defense against Internet threats. ESET Smart Security is a tightly integrated solution designed to protect computers from a range of threats. Built on the award-winning ESET NOD32 Antivirus and its powerful ThreatSense® engine, ESET Smart Security provides antispyware, antispam and customized firewall features to protect you, your family and your business from Internet threats.

Free 30 day trial, 1 licence 1 year = £39.95

Clicky: ESET Smart Security

Norton AntiVirus 2009
+ Stops viruses, worms, spyware, bots, and more—Keeps your system protected against all types of malicious threats. Norton™ Insight—Delivers innovative intelligence-driven technology for faster, fewer, shorter scans. Rapid pulse updates every 5 to 15 minutes—provides up-to-the-minute protection. Prevents virus-infected emails and instant messages from spreading—Feel secure while you keep in touch. Blocks browser exploits and protects against infected Web sites—Surf the Internet with confidence.

1 licence 1 year = £39.99

Clicky: Norton AntiVirus 2009

Norton Internet Security 2009
+ Proven fastest, lightest security suite available—Spend more time using your computer and less time waiting for your security software to perform. Pulse updates for up-to-the-minute protection—Delivered every 5 to 15 minutes to detect and eliminate new threats. Intelligence-driven for faster, fewer, shorter scans—By leveraging a unique online intelligence system, Norton™ Insight technology targets only those files at risk. Stops viruses, worms, spyware, bots, and more—Keeps your system protected against all types of malicious threats and much more...

1 licence 1 year = £49.99

Clicky: Norton Internet Security 2009

Norton 360 Version 2.0
+ Antivirus, Antispyware, Email scanning, Antiphishing, Rootkit detection, Identity protection, Web site authentication, Network monitoring, Firewall protection, Automatic backup and restore, 2 GB of secure online storage, PC performance tuneups, Automatic updates, Embedded support, Optional Antispam and Parental controls.

1 licence 1 year = £59.99

Clicky: Norton 360 Version 2.0

Special Offer
Free Kaspersky Internet Security for people who use Barclays Online Banking.
Clicky

[hykim1]

Maybe you could do a little section on anti-virus software for Macs? you can never be too sure these days...

[spikeymike]

Sure will do when i get the time i.e later tonight.

[Good bloke]

No support for AVG free edition is a bit misleading. I get daily updates to its virus database, and it works brilliantly.

[Aack]

Originally Posted by Good bloke

No support for AVG free edition is a bit misleading. I get daily updates to its virus database, and it works brilliantly.

[spikeymike]

Originally Posted by Good bloke

No support for AVG free edition is a bit misleading. I get daily updates to its virus database, and it works brilliantly.

Look on their site, that's what it says - i think they mean no support as how to use the actual program.

Why am i getting this 'grief'? I simply copy and pasted the descriptions from the sites, i didn't write them. Gawwwdd..

Thought you guys would appreciate that i've actually put this together...

[dchatterjee1]

I would recommend Adaware 2008 one and spybot search nd destroy

DON'T buy anti-pro 2009
That itself gives virus ! :O

[Good bloke]

Originally Posted by spikeymike

Look on their site, that's what it says - i think they mean no support as how to use the actual program.

Why am i getting this 'grief'? I simply copy and pasted the descriptions from the sites, i didn't write them. Gawwwdd..

Thought you guys would appreciate that i've actually put this together...

I'm sure people do, but it's not much use if the information is misleading, and support for anti-viral software is vital. AVG Free Edition is supported. I seem to remember upgrading from version 7.5 to version 8 only a month or two back, and virus updates are made all the time. I can't see, on the AVG site, where it says unsupported, either.

[GFX-K]

Originally Posted by dchatterjee1

I would recommend Adaware 2008 one and spybot search nd destroy

DON'T buy anti-pro 2009
That itself gives virus ! :O

Ditto!

[spikeymike]

Originally Posted by Good bloke

I'm sure people do, but it's not much use if the information is misleading, and support for anti-viral software is vital. AVG Free Edition is supported. I seem to remember upgrading from version 7.5 to version 8 only a month or two back, and virus updates are made all the time. I can't see, on the AVG site, where it says unsupported, either.

You really are a grouchy old moderator... (no offense) Look at the attachment...

[dchatterjee1]

Originally Posted by GFX-K

Ditto!

[gamer91]

how about a list of recommended payware too, some people may feel a bit safer with it.

[paperclip]

Originally Posted by Good bloke

I'm sure people do, but it's not much use if the information is misleading, and support for anti-viral software is vital. AVG Free Edition is supported. I seem to remember upgrading from version 7.5 to version 8 only a month or two back, and virus updates are made all the time. I can't see, on the AVG site, where it says unsupported, either.

He means no tech support. Anti-virus/spyware/firewalls would be usless without updates!

[spikeymike]

Originally Posted by paperclip

He means no tech support. Anti-virus/spyware/firewalls would be usless without updates!

Thank You!

Yes a list of premium anti virus will be included later as well as firewalls.

[Guvnor]

Originally Posted by spikeymike

Thank You!

Yes a list of premium anti virus will be included later as well as firewalls.

How about some tweaks that help to speed up your system a bit.

[spikeymike]

Originally Posted by Guvnor

How about some tweaks that help to speed up your system a bit.

I'll do what i can *sigh*

[Sparrow Hawk]

Originally Posted by spikeymike

I'll do what i can *sigh*

why dont you put this in the article bit? under the freeware section?

but thanks! its quite useful, although Comodo sometimes goes haywire and a part of the program starts using the CPU 100%. It was nightmare.

[Guvnor]

Originally Posted by spikeymike

I'll do what i can *sigh*

I can help you out with a few then perhaps you can add them to the first post ?
Great job spikeymike

[spikeymike]

Originally Posted by Guvnor

I can help you out with a few then perhaps you can add them to the first post ?
Great job spikeymike

Go ahead mate, much appreciate that - yes i'll add them if you pm me whatever you have that i don't in the first post.

I'm just away to add some premium services...

[Puma]

Make this a sticky

Oh and from my opinion the best from Spikeymikes excellent list is AVG and Ad-Ware. As for the firewalls, most people have them built into their routers/modems etc- I do anyways lol