dummy alert!!!

ok i cleaned my registry and some how all files were converted to lnk files and now it says i am a victim of software counterfitting any ideas?

 

ok the computer is on older toshiba satelite and is running windows xp theregistry cleaner i used was reg scrub and i ran it it told me to restart so i did no everything is lnk files i now have a bad copy of windows and it wont run anything but internet explorer i have searched and searched and it looks like the only option i have is a new copy of windows but i bought the laptop used for my kids and apparently it had a bootleg copy of windows on it but i have a hard time buyin a 150 copy of windows for a laptop that cost me 100 lol but someone pls help w ideas or input thx so much for all the help

 

You didn't state whether you made a new system restore point before running Reg Scrub, and if you have tried system restore as an option?

Are ALL files now .lnk or just those that were previously .exe?

As Kes just said, unfortunately we are unable to help with further suggestions if your copy of the OS is not legal.

 

i dont know if the copy that is on here is legal or not im just goin by wut the windows help site says. i bought the laptop from a minister friend so i cant really see him pirating anything but who knows right? and it seems like only the exe files were converted to lnk files im computer illiterate when it comes to repairs but it will still use internet explorer and function fine on the net. i tried system restore but it says it needs to know wut created it and then i get the victim of counterfeiting could it have erased the authenticity key for windows too? once again i appreciate everyones help in trying to resolve this problem w me

 

We're just going on what you've told us.

 

sry kinda new to this i usually have someone to do repairs but thought i could just clean it myself wont be doing that again lol i know enuf to get me in trouble apparently

 

The previous owner of said PC may be a minister but that doesn't mean that someone else didn't install Windows. You'd be surprised at how many 'techs' install bootlegged Windows (and other software) when they make their house calls. The IT industry has sprouted a whole gaggle of PC 'experts' that work out of their homes and garages and they offer low cost on-site PC 'service'. Not to knock anyone who does this, but it's been my experience that many of these guys use phrases like "don't worry about it" and "ignore it and click 'exit' or 'OK' when it comes up" more than is normal, and many have absolutely no problem installing pirated volume licensed (aka corporate) copies of Windows in anyone's PC who pays them $40 per visit.

However, if there's a product key sticker on the PC (laptops usually have this sticker on the bottom) then you may have a legit problem. If so, make sure the product key and the installed Windows are the same version (ie; the sticker says XP Home and you have XP Home installed) and contact Microsoft licensing and they'll get it straightened out. But I'll bet that the PC has XP Pro installed, and if there is a key, it's for XP Home.