PC infected with malware. Need help. Thanks!

Hi,

My Windows 7 PC got infected with malware in the early morning. While I was browsing the web with Firefox, several dialog boxes popped up declaring errors and my Avira picked up a problem.

I subsequently closed the dialog boxes and tried to perform a scan with Avira, but Avira wanted me to use their Restore System CD. I tried scanning with Avira in safe mode, which resulted in the discovery of Java viruses among others. I tried to use the Restore System CD as well, but it froze halfway through the scan.

I know I am still infected with malware because everytime I browse the web using Google, everything is slow and I keep getting redirected to other addresses. Also popups will appear on their own.

This is when I turned to Major Geeks. I started reading and following the steps of the removal guide. I just finished running MGtools. Attached are the logs.

I was unable to run TDSSkiller nor was I able to run fixTDSS.

It seems that the process may have helped a little, but web browsing is still slow and I still got redirected once. I have not noticed popups, but I have also severed the internet connection.

I'm strongly considering reformatting my PC and reinstalling the OS. If I go this route, is there anything I should watch out for? Should I reformat my secondary drive with data? I have been using another PC and a USB drive to transfer files. Is it possible that these items are infected too?

What is the threat level of the malware on my computer?

How do I prevent this from happening again?

I am new to this, so I apologize for any mistakes. Thanks in advance for your help!

 

Attached is the log from MGtools.

 

Hi chaslang,

Thank you for taking a look at my problem. I had decided to go ahead with the reinstallation of the OS before seeing your response. However, your comments on what happened to my PC or insights would be much appreciated.

Thanks,
James

 

Thanks again so much for your help! Attached is my HitmanPro log (after my format/reinstall).

 

Thank you!!