"Internet Explorer has stopped working" message

When I try using Internet Explorer 8, I get a window with the message "Internet Explorer has stopped working".

If I boot in safe mode, it works.

I recently removed AVG because I was getting too many popup messages.
There is a similar message when I try using Firefox and Super AntiSpyware (SAS). Also, SAS will not run in safe mode.

This is an Acer Aspire X1200 desktop running Vista Home Premium SP1.

SFC /scannow is ineffective.
In IE,
- cleared Enable Protected Mode
- in /Advanced tab I did a Reset
- cleared Third Party Extensions

There are no restore points.
I was able to run ccleaner.

 

Your description of the problems sounds an awful like like malware, to me.

Okay in safe mode, pop up messages, no restore points, can't run cCleaner, very likely an infected machine!

Follow this link, do the procedures to the extent you can, start a thread in the Malware Removal forum, you will be cured!

READ AND RUN ME FIRST

It will take time and effort.

Best of luck!