Spyware, viruses, & security : What exactly is ComboFix?
What exactly is ComboFix?
by Starfish564 - 10/24/09 4:09 PMHi
Awhile ago I had some trouble with viruses/malware on my computer and called a tech guy who was very helpful and got things working again. He installed the following three antivirus programs: AVG Free 8.5, Malwarebytes 1.34, and ComboFix. The first two I am familiar with and can navigate pretty easily. ComboFix, however, is another story. According to what I've read/heard this is not a program for an inexperienced user (me). I'm pretty much afraid to even click on the icon, as when I do, strange things happen. My question is, do I really need ComboFix if I have the other two programs? Is it really DOING anything? Considering I don't ever update it (or touch it at all for that matter!). I've never had any viuses/malware that couldn't be gotten rid of using either AVG or Malwarebytes.
Should I leave ComboFix alone or can I uninstall it? The lack of understanding it is what's bothering me. I'd be grateful for any explanations.
Thanks!
Starfish
P.S. My OS is Windows XP.
You are correct and that is a specialty
by roddy32
- 10/24/09 4:27 PM
In reply to: What exactly is ComboFix? by Starfish564
tool that should only be used with and expert guiding you. If you are all set with your problem you don't need it any more you should not use it again and can get rid of it. There are more explanations in this thread at Bleeping computer. Read the posts by Quietman and any of the others that are part HJT team or other staff there.
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/topic114269.html
Thank You
by Starfish564 - 10/25/09 2:22 PM In reply to: You are correct and that is a specialty by roddy32
I uninstalled ComboFix from my computer. Better to leave something like that to the experts.
Starfish
Combofix is a freeware
by housedog55 - 10/26/09 10:55 PM In reply to: What exactly is ComboFix? by Starfish564Combofix is a freeware (a legitimate spyware remover created by sUBs), Combofix was designed to scan a computer for known malware, spyware (SurfSideKick, QooLogic, and Look2Me as well as any other combination of the mentioned spyware applications) and remove them.
ComboFix allows the manual removal of spyware infections . It 's a specialized effective cleaning tool, which is useful compared to other malware and spyware removers.
Thanks for the explanation
by Starfish564 - 10/27/09 1:51 PM In reply to: Combofix is a freeware by housedog55As I understand it however ComboFix, unlike other anti-virus/anti-malware programs, has the potential to do major damage to a person's computer if used improperly (not by an expert). As I am not an expert, I personally feel better not having it on my computer. In the event that I would ever have a specific need for it, I will let a professional handle the situation.
Starfish
Good Move
by Bugbatter - 11/2/09 5:01 AM In reply to: Thanks for the explanation by Starfish564Yes, it is best to work with someone trained in its use. The information at the Bleeping Computer link above is outdated. Depending on the version of ComboFix that has been installed, other users may not be able to uninstall it with those instructions. Combofix is a work in progress and is always changing to address new situations. That is why the tool displays a disclaimer and why you need to be working with someone who is in contact with its Developer. If there is a problem with a specific version, a trained helper can advise on how to correct the situation. Here is just one example of the consequences of using Combofix without supervision.
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-6132_102-0.html?threadID=293341#2763333
ComboFix uninstall woes
by dmmoran - 11/4/09 8:54 PM In reply to: Good Move by BugbatterI am one of those who combofix /u does not uninstall it!! It also made THREE subdirectories on my C drive called ComboFix, and each one of them has a COMPLETE copy of my C drive in it!!!! It is now taking up three times the space I have installed on the disk -- CAN ANYONE help me?!!!
Thanks,
dorothy
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