How to Get Rid of Jump Malware
Malware can hijack your browser or even your desktop, overwriting key registry items and taking control of startup functions and services. Often called "jump" malware, these baddies penetrate so deeply and write so much redundancy into the registry that getting rid of them truly is a nightmare game of whack-a-mole. Badly infected machines sometimes become so corrupted that users resort to reinstalling the operating system, but there are less drastic solutions available. Some remedies are free, and there are even places to get help if the Windows registry scares you (as it should).
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Instructions
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Get Some Help
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Download the RunScanner freeware and follow the installation instructions.
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Run the scanner in "Beginner Mode." This is a safe way to get a picture of your machine and the registry items that are causing your headache. In the File menu of RunScanner, choose "Save Binary Run File."
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Consult the "Free Expert Help" list at Runscanner.net. Choose a forum site and create an account there. You will be able to upload your file to have a forum expert look it over, or send it directly to a helper.
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When the expert is finished with your run file, it is returned to you. Open the newly updated run file and click "Fix Selected Problems." Your malware worries should be over.
Go it Alone
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Download SmitfraudFix for free.
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When the download is complete, restart your computer in safe mode. You can do this by hitting "F8" repeatedly when you see the manufacturer splash screen during boot up. From the menu that appears, choose "Safe Mode."
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Double-click "Smitfraud.exe" on your desktop.
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In the Window that appears, choose option "2." Smitfraud will begin to clean any infected files.
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When you are asked if you would like to clean the registry, answer "Yes." Say "Yes" if you are asked to "Replace Infected File?" Finally, restart your machine and boot up normally.
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Tips & Warnings
Use RunScanner in expert mode only if you are familiar with the Windows registry and you are confident you won't accidentally delete a key entry.
If you are at all unsure of what you see in the RunScanner run file, post it to the helper forum and let the experts have a look.
Smitfraud.exe is a penetrating tool and should be used only if you have failed to clean your infection by other means.
