Spyware Woes

SirThom

SirThom

New Member
Well, my computer got hit with Spyware... AGAIN!! :mad: :mad: :mad:

My computer seemed funky for a few minutes, so I rebooted and ran Ad-Aware (from Lavasoft). It found over 120 new objects. So, I cleaned everything off as usual and rebooted again for safe measure, then it hit. During boot-up, the whole computer hangs on a black screen. I can't do anything to get out of it...it's just stuck. :mad:

So now I'm running Ubuntu off of a Live DVD while I backup my personal files to my iPod, where I can take that to another computer and temporarily store the files until I can burn a backup DVD.

Good times.

After that, I'll load Windows XP on a small partition, probably 30 GBs or so, run Windows Update a few times to get patched up on everything, then I'll probably make a Norton Ghost image of my Windows installation and get all of my backup files off of the other computer so I can burn those to a disk. Then, I'll be able to download the latest version of Kubuntu (unless I suddenly adore the GNOME interface of Ubuntu) and burn it. I'll make a new Linux installation on the remainder of the hard drive, and THEN, finally, I should be good to go.

I'll be switching back nightly to Windows (since it will boot sooo quickly...) to check up on updates, sync my iPod to my computer, maybe play a couple games, and then quickly switch back to Linux.

NOW: I need your help. For when I get back into Linux, I will need to grab the following types of applications:

  • Newsfeed Reader
  • Instant Messenger Client (AIM/MSN a must)
  • Something to code in. I know I can use the KDE equivalent of notepad, but I'd really like a program that has syntax highlighting and automatic file uploads via FTP.
  • Image editing (crop, resize... nothing superfluous)
  • FTP client
  • FTP server (for local, in-network file sharing)
Also, what are some of the more popular sites where you can get Linux applications?

If any of you could suggest programs or sites, just post 'em! If you don't have any suggestions, or just feel sorry, feel free to post as well. =P
 
SirThom said:
Instant Messenger Client (AIM/MSN a must)
Image editing (crop, resize... nothing superfluous)
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GAIM is most likely already installed-its a multi platform instant messanger like trillian.
I believe open office or KDE already has a image editing thing built in (not sure which). If not then try "the gimp".
 
Alright, I got Windows XP sitting on a 50 GB partition right now. I've already downloaded Kubuntu so I need to burn that. Also running Windows Update to get the latest patches. Fun.

============

Thanks for the suggestions, Talon.

YOu can avoid spyware issues in winders by not using IE. Period. I run winders 2k here and i don't have spywre problems.. I know your frustration though trust me. I have had clients have to make the choice between spending boocoos of $$ to clean up their systems or have me backup their data and rebuild the box. They usually take number 2.
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Yeah, I moved away from IE longgggg ago. =)
 
Just for reference, here are the tools I use to prevent and/or remove malware:
A few other practices that help me avoid total disaster:
  • My network is connected through a Linksys router with a hardware firewall.
  • I only open ports on my router when necessary.
  • I use Trillian, which is more secure than standard IM clients, for instant messaging.
  • I refuse to open attachments sent via e-mail or click links sent via IM until I can confirm the file or link is not malware.
  • I perform critical document backups (roughly) every three months.
 
hescominsoon said:
YOu can avoid spyware issues in winders by not using IE. Period. I run winders 2k here and i don't have spywre problems..:) I know your frustration though trust me. I have had clients have to make the choice between spending boocoos of $$ to clean up their systems or have me backup their data and rebuild the box. They usually take number 2.
Click to expand...
You are lucky enough to run a coporate level linux firewall on your network :D

usually if you run a firewall on each machine and watch what you open or download you shouldnt have problem. I average 20 objects every 4 months or so when i do scans. That and I backup my files about everyday.

Ubuntu seems cool, i tried it for a bit, but i went back to CentOS cause its what i'm use to :)
 
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Alright, I'm now dual-booting Windows and Kubuntu! Now I just need to settle in by loading some more applications to my Linux installation, get SP2 on my Windows installation, and then I really need to find a new skin for Kubuntu. The default one isn't too bad, but I want to see if I can get a different one running...

Otherwise, I think we have a winner!! =)
 
get slack it comes with firefox 1.5 giam hte gimp rss reders gftp and a lot of stuff like that alredy installed
 
so does Kubuntu and ubuntu, and KDE is the reason most of them are there (standard with KDE, not distro).

Did you install the grub loader SirThom?
 
get slack it comes with firefox 1.5 giam hte gimp rss reders gftp and a lot of stuff like that alredy installed
Click to expand...
Looks to be late for that...I already installed. =)
Did you install the grub loader SirThom?
Click to expand...
Yes, the installer loaded the GRUB bootloader, and it works like a charm.

=============

Now, I need to find a better KDE theme. I downloaded one, but it involves running items in the terminal and it's giving me errors and stuff, so I've given up for now. Any KDE theme sites you recommend?
 
SirThom said:
Yes, the installer loaded the GRUB bootloader, and it works like a charm.
Click to expand...
I was just wondering, i found that the grub loader got in the way of the advanced windows boot options, such as safe mode (which i need for patching aoe3).
 
You need safe mode for patching AoE3? Haha. :)

SirThom: Post some screenies of both desktops when your done patching and skinning. Me wanna see!
 
SirThom: Post some screenies of both desktops when your done patching and skinning. Me wanna see!
Click to expand...

Will do. =)

====

Now I just need to get the whole thing looking better with some actual fonts. The font that Firefox currently uses is atrocious. Any way to change it?
 
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Yeah, I enjoy it as well. =) The skin is titled "Arrow", for WindowBlinds. Functionally, it works the same in the free version of WB, but owning WB ($20, well worth it IMO) will add transparency and other features.
 
Uhh..the skin is free..and the program offers a free version.
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Right. It's free to try it out, Michael. =)
Thanks SirThom, I will be sure to get this!
Click to expand...
Sure thing -- it's really hard to find a skin that you really like, and I almost (sad to say) always switch back to the stock Playskool skin that comes with Window XP. This one is an exception: I love it! =)
 
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