Nuking from orbit!

Retrosteeve · Apr 16, 2006

Ok, thanks very much with the help with my infected computer last week. I can't find the viruses/rootkit any more, but either they're still there, or they've done too much damage. The drive is doomed.

So I'm going to format the disk, (perhaps also the MBR?) and reinstall Windows from CD.

Would like advice on making sure that the bad stuff is really gone when I do. Couldn't find it in the FAQ. Any pointers on how to safely delete and reinstall a possibly Pwned computer so nothing comes along for the ride?

Thanks in advance,

Steve

chaslang · Apr 16, 2006

Just make sure the CD you reinstall from is an original and is not infected.

Also have all of the utilities given in How to Protect yourself from malware!
available on another CD and install the AV, AS, and firewall software before you ever reconnect the PC to the internet. Connecting an unprotected PC to the internet can result in getting infected in as little as 10 seconds especially if the PC is not a fully patch Win XP SP2 system. That brings up another important point which is the first step in the How to protect yourself thread. When you do connect to the internet, the first thing to do is step 1 which is Windows Update. The second thing to do is to get ALL updates for your antivirus, antispyware, and firewall....etc software.

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Nuking from orbit!

Retrosteeve Private E-2

chaslang MajorGeeks Admin - Master Malware Expert Staff Member