Live Security Platinum - Virus Removal Guide

Live Security Platinum is a computer virus which will display fake security alerts,reporting that malware has been detected on your computer.This alerts are professional looking pop-ups and when you click on them, you are advised to buy Live Security Platinum in order to remove the detected threats.
In reality, none of the reported issues are real, and are only used to scare you into buying Live Security Platinum and stealing your personal financial information.

Apart from the bogus alerts,as part of its self-defense mechanism,Live Security Platinum has disabled the Windows system utilities, including the Windows Task Manager and Registry Editor,and will block you from running certain programs that could lead to its removal.
Further more,this rogue antivirus has modified your Windows files associations so now you can’t run files that end in a .exe extension.

If your computer is infected with Live Security Platinum,then you are seeing this images:

[Image: Live Security Platinum virus]

[Image: Live Security Platinum Alert]

[Image: Live Security Platinum Activation request]

[Image: Live Security Platinum Warning]

Registration codes for Live Security Platinum
As an optional step,you can use the following license key to register Live Security Platinum and stop the fake alerts.
Live Security Platinum license key: AA39754E-715219CE
Please keep in mind that entering the above registration code will NOT remove Live Security Platinum from your computer , instead it will just stop the fake alerts so that you’ll be able to complete our removal guide more easily.

Live Security Platinum Removal Guide

STEP 1 : Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking

Remove all floppy disks, CDs, and DVDs from your computer, and then restart your computer.
Press and hold the F8 key as your computer restarts.Please keep in mind that you need to press the F8 key before the Windows start-up logo appears.
Note: With some computers, if you press and hold a key as the computer is booting you will get a stuck key message. If this occurs, instead of pressing and holding the “F8 key”, tap the “F8 key” continuously until you get the Advanced Boot Options screen.
On the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Safe Mode with Networking , and then press ENTER.

STEP 2: Remove Live Security Platinum malicious proxy server

Live Security Platinum may add a proxy server which prevents the user from accessing the internet,follow the below instructions to remove the proxy.

Start the Internet Explorer browser and if you are using Internet Explorer 9 ,click on the gear icon (Tools for Internet Explorer 8 users) ,then select Internet Options.
Go to the tab Connections.At the bottom, click on LAN settings.
Uncheck the option Use a proxy server for your LAN. This should remove the malicious proxy server and allow you to use the internet again.

If you are a Firefox users, go to Firefox(upper left corner) → Options → Advanced tab → Network → Settings → Select No Proxy

STEP 3: Repair your Windows Registry from Live Security Platinum malicious changes.

Smart Fortress 2012 has changed your Windows registry settings so that when you try to run a executable file (ending with .exe ) , it will instead launch the infection rather than the desired program.

Download the registryfix.reg file to fix the malicious registry changes from Live Security Platinum.
REGISTRYFIX.REG DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download the registry fix called registryfix.reg)
Double-click on registryfix.reg file to run it. Click “Yes” for Registry Editor prompt window,then click OK.

STEP 4: Run RKill to terminate known malware processes associated with Live Security Platinum.

RKill is a program that will attempt to terminate all malicious processes associated with Live Security Platinum,so that we will be able to perform the next step without being interrupted by this malicious software.
Because this utility will only stop Live Security Platinum running process, and does not delete any files, after running it you should not reboot your computer as any malware processes that are configured to start automatically will just be started again.

While your computer is in Safe Mode with Networking ,please download the latest official version of RKill.Please note that we will use a renamed version of RKILL so that Live Security Platinum won’t block this utility from running.
RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download RKILL renamed as iExplore.exe)
Double-click on the iExplore.exe icon in order to automatically attempt to stop any processes associated with Live Security Platinum.
RKill will now start working in the background, please be patient while the program looks for various malware programs and tries to terminate them.

IF you are having problems starting or running RKill, you can download any other renamed versions of RKill from here.
When Rkill has completed its task, it will generate a log. You can then proceed with the rest of the guide.

WARNING: Do not reboot your computer after running RKill as the malware process will start again , preventing you from properly performing the next step.

STEP 5: Remove Live Security Platinum malicious files with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE

Download the latest official version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE.
MALWAREBYTES ANTI-MALWARE DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free)
Start the Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware installation process by double clicking on mbam-setup file.
When the installation begins, keep following the prompts in order to continue with the setup process. Do not make any changes to default settings and when the program has finished installing, make sure you leave both the Update Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware and Launch Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware checked. Then click on the Finish button. If Malwarebytes’ prompts you to reboot, please do not do so.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start and you’ll be prompted to start a trial period , please select ‘Decline‘ as we just want to use the on-demand scanner.
On the Scanner tab,select Perform full scan and then click on the Scanbutton to start scanning your computer.
Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for Live Security Platinum malicious files as shown below.
When the scan is finished a message box will appear, click OK to continue.
You will now be presented with a screen showing you the malware infections that Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware has detected.Please note that the infections found may be different than what is shown in the image.Make sure that everything is Checked (ticked) and click on the Remove Selected button.
Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start removing the malicious files.After completing this task it will display a message stating that it needs to reboot,please allow this request and then let your PC boot in Normal mode.

STEP 6: Double check your system for any left over infections with HitmanPro

This step can be performed in Normal Mode ,so please download the latest official version of HitmanPro.
HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download HitmanPro)
Double click on the previously downloaded fileto start the HitmanPro installation.

IF you are experiencing problems while trying to start HitmanPro, you can use the Force Breach mode.To start HitmanPro in Force Breach mode, hold down the left CTRL-key when you start HitmanPro and all non-essential processes are terminated, including the malware process. (How to start HitmanPro in Force Breach mode – Video)
Click on Next to install HitmanPro on your system.
The setup screen is displayed, from which you can decide whether you wish to install HitmanPro on your machine or just perform a one-time scan, select a option then click on Next to start a system scan.
HitmanPro will start scanning your system for malicious files as seen in the image below.
Once the scan is complete,you’ll see a screen which will display all the malicious files that the program has found.Click on Next to remove this malicious files.
Click Activate free license to start the free 30 days trial and remove the malicious files.
HitmanPro will now start removing the infected objects.If this program will ask you to restart your computer,please allow this request.

STEP 7: Remove the left over malicious registry keys and files

Live Security Platinum has sadded some malicious registry keys to your Windows installation , to remove this malicious changes we need to run a scan with RogueKiller.

Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
ROGUEKILLER DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Start button to perform a system scan.
After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.

If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove Live Security Platinum from your machine, please start a new thread in our Malware Removal Assistance forum.

10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams

Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.

Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.

Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).

If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.

Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.

If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.

Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.

If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.

Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.

If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.

Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.

If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.

Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.

If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.

Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.

If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).

Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.

If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.

Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.

If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.

Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
- Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
- Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
- Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
- Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
- Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
- Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
- Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.

These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.

386 thoughts on “Live Security Platinum – Virus Removal Guide”

Stuart

August 23, 2012 at 07:25

Hi Stelian it looks like you have helped alot of people with this problem, im hoping you can now help me. I have done everything upto the RKILL install, Problem being the laptop will not download the file, it downloads approx 1.3mb out of 1.5mb before it is stoped by internet explorer-securty warning it says the file has been blocked because it does not have a valid digital signature that verifies its publisher, I have also tryed the other link you posted but all the other named versions show the same problem on my laptop, is there anyway i can turn this off so i can complete the download Kind regards Stuart
- Stelian Pilici
  
  August 23, 2012 at 12:35
  Hello Stuart,
  You can accept that notification and ignore the warning…
  Alternatively you can follow this guide:
  STEP 1: Run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware in Chameleon Mode in Norman mode:
  1. Download Malwarebytes Chameleon from here and extract it to a folder in a convenient location
  2. Make certain that your PC is connected to the internet and then open the folder where you extracted Chameleon to and double-click on the Chameleon help file and then follow the onscreen instructions to use it.
  3. If the Chameleon help file itself will not open, then double-click each file one by one until you find one that works, which will be indicated by a black DOS/command prompt window Note: Do not attempt to open mbam-killer as that is not a Chameleon executable and serves a different purpose)
  4. Follow the onscreen instructions to press a key to continue and Chameleon will proceed to download and install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for you
  5. Once it has done this, it will attempt to update Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, click OK when it says that the database was updated successful
  6. Next, Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will automatically open and perform a Quick scan
  7. Upon completion of the scan, if anything has been detected, click on Show Result
  8. Have Malwarebytes Anti-Malware remove any threats that are detected and click Yes if prompted to reboot your computer to allow the removal process to complete
  9. After your computer restarts, open Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and perform a Full System scan to verify that there are no remaining threats
  STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Scan button to perform a system scan.
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
  STEP 3 Please perform a scan with HitmanPro as seen on the guide.
  If you are having problems starting this program please use the ForceBreach mode as described in the guide.
  
  STEP 4: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is running!
  Good luck…
  - Chafic Katergi
    
    August 23, 2012 at 17:17
    
    All is good! THX!
  - Stuart
    
    August 23, 2012 at 22:05
    
    Sir you are a legend its as dead as a doornail i can’t thankyou enough thank you thank you thank you :)
- Lana
  
  August 23, 2012 at 20:14
  
  I followed all your steps but still get a “congratualtions your sytem will be locked message” It appears on a notepad entiled “How to decrpyt files” I can not access my files. all the scans say their are no threats. ideas?
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    August 25, 2012 at 03:34
    
    It looks like your are also the victim of a ransomware attack….What’s the current status of your computer, can you login into WIndows? Can you view and open your files?
  - Lana
    
    August 25, 2012 at 13:40
    
    Currently, all is running well with the system and internet but I am unable to open any of my files. I have many pictures in Kodak Share and thankfully not to many personal files in word etc. Nothing I would cry over losing. I need to restore the files somehow. They have been encrypted?
  - Lana
    
    August 25, 2012 at 13:50
    
    There is also that ransome wordpad mesage..go here..pay $500 so it does seem to be a ransom attack as well. I log into windows but can not access any of my files.
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    August 25, 2012 at 17:35
    As I’ve suspected…You are the victim of an ransomware attack… DO NOT SEND ANY MONEY.
    
    Next,can you please run a scan with Combofix,RogueKiller and ESET online scanner and post the logs here :
    
    STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
    
    Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:
    
    COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
    COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
    
    VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download. ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop
    
    Close any open browsers.
    
    Close/disable all anti virus and anti malware programs so they do not interfere with the running of ComboFix.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
    
    Click on this link to see a list of programs that should be disabled. The list is not all inclusive. If yours is not listed and you don’t know how to disable it, please ask.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Close any open browsers.
    
    WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
    
    Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
    
    If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
    
    ———————————————————–
    
    Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
    
    Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
    
    When finished, it shall produce a log for you.
    
    Notes:
    
    Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
    
    Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
    
    If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.
    
    STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
    
    Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
    
    Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Start button to perform a system scan.
    
    After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
    
    Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
    
    STEP 3: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
    
    Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
    
    Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
    
    Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
    
    Click the Start button.
    
    Check Scan archives
    
    Push the Start button.
    
    ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
    
    When the scan completes, push Finish
    
    Next,please run HitmanPro and Malwarebytes as seen on the guide.
    Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utilities.
  - Lana
    
    September 8, 2012 at 00:21
    
    Stelian,
    Thank you for your help thus far. I am convinced that security platinum has been removed. The FBI ransomewre has been removed. One last virus: EnCiphErED This is what is stopping me from opening my files. I am not able to download the McAfee I purchased. Something about temporary files. Help!
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    September 8, 2012 at 04:18
    
    Hello Lana,
    I advise to avoid McAfee isn’t that great when it comes to zero day malware prevention!
    Below you can find some quick suggestions on what security products I would recommend:
    Free – Avast 7 Free version or COMODO Internet Security
    Paid : Norton Internet Security 2012,Avast Internet Security 7,G-DATA Internet Security 2012 or ESET Smart Security 5.
    Anyway ,you should really start a thread in our Security Configuration forum as you need to build a layered security config: http://malwaretips.com/Forum-Security-Configuration-Wizard
    
    Also it would very good if you took the time and read this article that I’ve wrote: http://malwaretips.com/blogs/how-to-easily-avoid-pc-infections/ .. If you follow it,then we’ll never meet again in this conditions:)
margarita

August 22, 2012 at 20:03

Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!! Everything was easy to follow and the virus is completely gone!!
amitabh agarwal

August 22, 2012 at 08:20

Thanks a lot, your trick really work you saved my computer.
Des

August 20, 2012 at 14:39

Hi Stelian my laptop was infected with live security platinum ive followed steps to remove it which work a treat thank you! i then notice on your threads that someone was having trouble with windows update /firewall/defender not working or responding and checked my machine which i found was the same so i followed all the steps rogue killer/kaspersky/esnet/windows repair all in one but its still the same running fine but no firewall etc ive got avast av and hitman pro running am i still at risk and can we fix it any ideas ? cheers Des
- Stelian Pilici
  
  August 20, 2012 at 17:11
  
  Hello Des,
  Can you please follow this steps:
  1. Click the Start buton
  2. Type “cmd” in the Search Box and then press Enter
  3. Right-click “cmd.exe” and select “Run as administrator”
  4. Click “Continue” on the “User Account Control” Window
  5. In the command prompt type the following command
  sc create BITS binpath= “c:\windows\system32\svchost.exe -k netsvcs” start= delayed-auto
  6.Restart your computer and check if the problem is solved.
  Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok….
  - des
    
    August 20, 2012 at 20:24
    
    Sorry forgot to mention id tried that before but have tried it again and computer still the same : ( im sure you have another trick up your sleeve though cheers Des.
  - James
    
    August 21, 2012 at 09:26
    
    Hello Stelian,
    Thanks for all of your advice. Have followed it through and have got rid of Live Security Platinum I think but now have similar issues as above – the Security Centre will not open, MSE will not update ( since I have reisntalled it) nor will Windows update either. Tried Mr Fixit on Microsoft website, but that will not load up. Have tried the cmd also but not certain I did it right – it came up stratight away with administrator. Any further hints please? Sorry to be a pain!
    J
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    August 21, 2012 at 18:25
    Hello James,
    I think we’ll need to uninstall and the re-install back MSE.
    Next can you please run a scan with Combofix,RogueKiller and ESET online scanner and post the logs here :
    
    STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
    
    Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:
    
    COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
    COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
    
    VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download. ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop
    
    Close any open browsers.
    
    Close/disable all anti virus and anti malware programs so they do not interfere with the running of ComboFix.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
    
    Click on this link to see a list of programs that should be disabled. The list is not all inclusive. If yours is not listed and you don’t know how to disable it, please ask.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Close any open browsers.
    
    WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
    
    Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
    
    If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
    
    ———————————————————–
    
    Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
    
    Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
    
    When finished, it shall produce a log for you.
    
    Notes:
    
    Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
    
    Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
    
    If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.
    
    STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
    
    Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
    
    Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Start button to perform a system scan.
    
    After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
    
    Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
    
    STEP 3: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
    
    Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
    
    Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
    
    Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
    
    Click the Start button.
    
    Check Scan archives
    
    Push the Start button.
    
    ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
    
    When the scan completes, push Finish
    
    Next,please run HitmanPro and Malwarebytes as seen on the guide.
    Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utilities.
  - Rishabh Rastogi
    
    August 22, 2012 at 13:40
    
    Hi Stelian & Des,
    
    I was facing the same problem and tried many techniques and tools to get my windows security centre up and running. I reckon restoring it to a previous restore point is the best option as of now. I tried it after going through the above steps and now the system is once again running smoothly.
    
    Cheers!!
  - James
    
    August 22, 2012 at 22:44
    
    Hi Stelian,
    Did as you suggested – thanks for your help. ComboFix ran immediately after clicking on the top link, scanned and eventually turned the computer off. Everything else found the odd bug. I reinstalled MSE before hand and afterwards but cannot subsequently update it, nor can I access Microsoft downloads, run their Fixit programme or turn on the firewall.
    Here are the logs –
    RogueKiller V7.6.6 [08/10/2012] by Tigzy
    
    Many thanks for your help,
    J
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    August 25, 2012 at 03:41
    
    Hello,
    Can you please follow this steps:
    1. Click the Start buton
    2. Type “cmd” in the Search Box and then press Enter
    3. Right-click “cmd.exe” and select “Run as administrator”
    4. Click “Continue” on the “User Account Control” Window
    5. In the command prompt type the following command
    sc create BITS binpath= “c:\windows\system32\svchost.exe -k netsvcs” start= delayed-auto
    6.Restart your computer and check if the problem is solved.
    Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utilities.
Paul

August 19, 2012 at 21:33

Tried it. Worked like a charm!

Thanks a lot man! You save me a lot of stress and money for making this guide! Much appreciated.
Jassz

August 19, 2012 at 09:33

Thanks a lot bro!!! You saved my brand new laptop!!! Incredible work by you…I was almost about to fall for it as I had very important work from job to be done. Many thanks! Cheers!
Christina

August 19, 2012 at 07:33

Omg thank you so much for having this online I was do worried I wouldn’t be able to fix my laptop
YianisG

August 18, 2012 at 19:58

Hello and thanks for the killer guide. all works great, only problem is I can still see Live Security Platinum on my desktop (shortcut) and on my wndows start up list….is this normal?
- Stelian Pilici
  
  August 20, 2012 at 03:39
  Hello YianisG,
  Those shortcuts are just leftover files which you can delete…… Right click on them and select ;Delete;
  Next,lets make sure your computer is really clean :
  STEP 1: Run a scan with RogueKiller
  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Scan button to perform a system scan.
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
  STEP 2: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is running!
  Stay safe!
Mark

August 18, 2012 at 17:11

Worked like a charm. Thank you sir.
Andy

August 17, 2012 at 15:40

Thanks very much for taking the time out to put together this page. Still wishing I could get my hands on these bast*rds!!!
Thanks again
mumdamnkids

August 16, 2012 at 20:37

I can’t connect to the internet on the PC that has live security platinum, the virus has blocked the wifi from connecting (in normal mode) and in safe mode with networking the dell wifi is not recocnised. I tried to save the downloads to usb and run them but with no success. It finds the viruses, which I delete, then the program reinstalls/starts up when I start in normal mode.
- Stelian Pilici
  
  August 16, 2012 at 20:39
  Hello mumdamnkids,
  Can you please run a scan with Combofix,RogueKiller and ESET online scanner and post the logs here :
  
  STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
  
  Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:
  
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  
  VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download. ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop
  - Close any open browsers.
  - Close/disable all anti virus and anti malware programs so they do not interfere with the running of ComboFix.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
    
    Click on this link to see a list of programs that should be disabled. The list is not all inclusive. If yours is not listed and you don’t know how to disable it, please ask.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Close any open browsers.
    
    WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
    
    Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
    
    If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
    
    ———————————————————–
  1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
  2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
  3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.
  Notes:
  1. Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
  2. Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
  3. If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.
  STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Start button to perform a system scan.
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
  STEP 3: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Next,please run HitmanPro and Malwarebytes as seen on the guide.
  Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utilities.
Tim

August 16, 2012 at 17:45

Went through all the steps and seemed to work. Thank You.
I have one problem though, I can’t access my security center.
MSE is working and says that my computer is protected and everything is up to date but why cant I access security center to turn on firewall.
Any suggestions?
- Stelian Pilici
  
  August 16, 2012 at 18:00
  Hello Tim,
  Can you please run a scan with Combofix,RogueKiller and ESET online scanner and post the logs here :
  
  STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
  
  Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:
  
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  
  VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download. ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop
  - Close any open browsers.
  - Close/disable all anti virus and anti malware programs so they do not interfere with the running of ComboFix.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
    
    Click on this link to see a list of programs that should be disabled. The list is not all inclusive. If yours is not listed and you don’t know how to disable it, please ask.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Close any open browsers.
    
    WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
    
    Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
    
    If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
    
    ———————————————————–
  1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
  2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
  3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.
  Notes:
  1. Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
  2. Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
  3. If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.
  STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Start button to perform a system scan.
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
  STEP 3: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Next,please run HitmanPro and Malwarebytes as seen on the guide.
  Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utiliti
  - Tim
    
    August 18, 2012 at 17:39
    
    Thank you for your help! Everything seems to be working fine except updating spyware definitions on MSE. (error code 0x80240022) This could be due to the fact that I replaced one of the registry files with wscsvc.zip and cant remember what the original file was called. Also dont have a backup. Is there a way to get a list of registry files. I might recognize it if I see it. I looked but couldnt find one
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    August 18, 2012 at 18:12
    
    The quickest way to fix this,would be just to re-install Microsoft Security Essentials…
    However I do recommend that you uninstall this product and go instead with Avast Antivirus 7 Free as it’s a much better choice…
    Stay safe!
- mumdamnkids
  
  August 17, 2012 at 00:27
  
  ooohhh… i just used the registration key, i was starting at step 1…. that worked, thanks for the forum :) one clean laptop
Suze

August 16, 2012 at 13:00

Hi I left a post yesterday but it seems to have disappeared! Since getting rid of the virus my laptop doesn’t seem to want to work! When I connect to the Internet it goes really slow and eventually crashes or freezes. Please help
- Stelian Pilici
  
  August 16, 2012 at 18:01
  Hello Suze,
  Can you please run a scan with Combofix,RogueKiller and ESET online scanner and post the logs here :
  
  STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
  
  Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:
  
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  
  VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download. ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop
  - Close any open browsers.
  - Close/disable all anti virus and anti malware programs so they do not interfere with the running of ComboFix.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
    
    Click on this link to see a list of programs that should be disabled. The list is not all inclusive. If yours is not listed and you don’t know how to disable it, please ask.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Close any open browsers.
    
    WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
    
    Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
    
    If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
    
    ———————————————————–
  1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
  2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
  3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.
  Notes:
  1. Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
  2. Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
  3. If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.
  STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Start button to perform a system scan.
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
  STEP 3: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Next,please run HitmanPro and Malwarebytes as seen on the guide.
  Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utiliti
James

August 16, 2012 at 12:46

Thanks! Your tutorial really helped :)
Rosie

August 16, 2012 at 12:30

Stelian you’re a life-saver, thanks man!! Worked perfectly, saved me at least £50 and your instructions were brilliantly easy to follow (as opposed to other techy forums/posts which are clearly written for other computer geniuses, not mere mortal every day users like me). I definitely owe you a pint :-)
Warren

August 16, 2012 at 00:36

Fantastic!!! Great advise, if you follow the instructions you’l get the result you wanted. Really easy to follow and clear and simple instructions! Highly recommended. Many thanks. Warren 15/08/2012 Stockport UK.
Nick

August 15, 2012 at 22:22

Thank you so much for the help. Was very close to putting in the factory reset discs!
amar

August 15, 2012 at 09:25

I can’t get past step 4 with Rkill or the renamed Rkill. Computer says its going to restart, Rkill’s black screen shows no problem found, same a the .txt report. Then computer restarts. So clearly something is wrong. HELP PLEASE. 2 hours and I can’t get past this part
- amar
  
  August 15, 2012 at 18:50
  
  ComboFix 12-08-14.05 – Amar 15/08/2012 2:49:18.1.2 – x86
  Microsoft® Windows Vista™ Home Premium 6.0.6002.2.1252.2.1033.18.3070.2252 [GMT -7:00]
  Running from: C:\Users\Amar\Desktop\ComboFix.exe
  AV: Microsoft Security Essentials *Disabled/Updated* {9765EA51-0D3C-7DFB-6091-10E4E1F341F6}
  SP: Microsoft Security Essentials *Disabled/Updated* {2C040BB5-2B06-7275-5A21-2B969A740B4B}
  
  ((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Other Deletions )))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    August 16, 2012 at 09:12
    
    Hello amar,
    Logs look good, can you please run a scan with Malwarebytes and HitmanPro.
    How is your computer running now?
sleepy_chicken

August 15, 2012 at 08:50

Hi,

I got hit with this yesterday and your simple guidance worked brilliantly! One small point, HitmanPro seems to have lost the Activate Free License option…not your problem I know. Fortunately, all nasties were removed and HitmanPro found no additionals.
- Spidey
  
  August 17, 2012 at 19:18
  
  The “Activate Free License” option is there for me as of today
Gillian

August 15, 2012 at 02:41

Hi

I encounter a problem when running RKill As it’s running I get a pop up window which says “Windows has encountered a critical problem and will restart automatically in one minute Please save your work now” I have tried all the alternate links but my computer restarts everytime at this point How can I stop this so I can proceed to the next step? Many thanks in advance!
- Stelian Pilici
  
  August 16, 2012 at 18:07
  Helllo Gillian,
  Can you please run a scan with Combofix,RogueKiller and ESET online scanner and post the logs here :
  
  STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
  
  Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:
  
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  
  VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download. ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop
  - Close any open browsers.
  - Close/disable all anti virus and anti malware programs so they do not interfere with the running of ComboFix.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
    
    Click on this link to see a list of programs that should be disabled. The list is not all inclusive. If yours is not listed and you don’t know how to disable it, please ask.
    ———————————————————–
    
    Close any open browsers.
    
    WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
    
    Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
    
    If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
    
    ———————————————————–
  1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
  2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
  3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.
  Notes:
  1. Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
  2. Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
  3. If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.
  STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Start button to perform a system scan.
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
  STEP 3: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Next,please run HitmanPro and Malwarebytes as seen on the guide.
  Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utilities.