computer "issue"

[pisces2473]

I've been getting these "popups" that look like they are from inside my computer. They aren't from any company or anything, and they say things like "windows requires immediate attention" and then they direct me to go to these sites and download things to fix the computer. They look like windows messages, regular boxes with the "ok" button and they are entitled "messenger service."

WTF are these? How do I get rid of them? Is my computer fucked? They pop up constantly and it's annoying. It happened a few months ago, but they went away on their own...

[Kitty]

You're not downloading these things are you?

Do you have a firewall? I recommend ZoneAlarm.

[pisces2473]

Oh God no! I just close the windows. I have AdAware and SpyBot, but I think I need something a little stronger...

Thanks Kitty, I'll have to check out that firewall.

[biodork]

I think I had that happen on my computer once. Does it show up in your list of installed programs as Messenger Service or something like that? You might have to start up your computer in safe mode and uninstall it that way.

[mishl982]

I am not sure if this is the same thing, but I get actual pop ups that try and disguise themselves as Windows messages. I just X them out. Sometimes I'll get popups that ask me if I want to install something too.

One I get a lot is WinFixer.

[winneythepooh7]

I am also having an issue recently. I have this pop-up thingy I can't close that says "Symantic Email Proxy" I think it has something to do with my anti-virus protection but I am not sure. Thoughts anyone? I can move it down, but not really close it out.

[lynseymay]

I have a suggestion. Download the google toolbar as it has a message popup blocker built into it and it's great. It really does work. I had it at work.

[and1grad]

Oh God no! I just close the windows. I have AdAware and SpyBot, but I think I need something a little stronger...

Thanks Kitty, I'll have to check out that firewall.
AdAware and spybot are good enough for spyware. Whats your antivirus? Something like Norton might already have a firewall. That ZoneAlarm is REALLY stingy and kind of a pain to work with but its better than nothing.

[jcm12]

They may be trojans, which Spybot and Adaware can't do shit about

download a copy of McAfee or Norton trial software, and do a FULL scan of your pc, i can almost guarantee you'll see multiple trojans/viruses

[meatwad]

Sygate is an uber goody firewall.

Spyware Doctor is an uber goody spyware remover.

Spyware Blaster is an uber goody spyware blocker.

[Kitty]

AdAware and spybot are good enough for spyware. Whats your antivirus? Something like Norton might already have a firewall. That ZoneAlarm is REALLY stingy and kind of a pain to work with but its better than nothing.

I haven't had any problems with it - it doesn't let ANYTHING access the internet. Since I started using it I have had way less computer probs.