Re: flashing messages

pcadd wrote:

received a computer from my daughter with windows xp on it. her name
is on the system. couple of questions:
1. everytime i try to "ctrl, alt, del" or go to the 'start" and try
look at something, say run regedit" and click on the applicable button
the only thing that happens is that the screen will flash for a second
and nothing else happens. i can't use the "ctrl, alt, del" or
start-run function. how do i fix this problem?
2. or do i have to reformat the whole system and reinstall all over
again? 3. can i change her name to my name on the system, or does it
makes any difference?

Those symptoms usually indicate virus infection. Go through these
general malware removal steps systematically -
http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/page2.html#Removing_Malware

Include scanning with either Sysclean or Multi_AV, plus AVG Anti-Spyware
(formerly Ewido - http://www.ewido.net/en/) and follow instructions to
do all scans in Safe Mode.

When all else fails, run HijackThis and post your log in one of the
specialty forums listed at the link above (not here, please).

If the procedures look too complex - and there is no shame in admitting
this isn't your cup of tea - take the machine to a professional
computer repair shop (not your local version of BigStoreUSA). The only
alternative to going through the malware removal tediously and
systematically, probably with online help from an HJT forum, and taking
the machine to a real professional is to back up your data and do a
clean install of Windows. It's your call. Please be aware that not all
local shops are skilled at removing malware and even if they are, your
computer may be so infested that Windows will need to be
clean-installed. Have all your data backed up before you take the
machine into a shop.

Malke
--
Elephant Boy Computers
www.elephantboycomputers.com
"Don't Panic!"
MS-MVP Windows - Shell/User
.