I have never run into this problem before and not sure how to fix it.
Somehow an icon has been added to my start up tray that flashes between a
blue question mark and red circled "x". About every five minutes it flashes
a warning note on my screen that says:
"System Alert.
System has detected a number of active spyware applications that may
impact the performance of your computer. Click the icon to get rid of the
unwanted spyware by downloading an up to date anti-spyware solution."
Before I clicked the icon I looked at "settings, control panel,
add/delete programs: but no unusual name came up that would be this program.
When I put my curser over all the icons in the tray, it shows the name
of the program. except for this one, that shows no name.
I have used my adaware and an offline program to check and I can find no
spyware on my machine. Norton also finds nothing.
In desperation, I finally clicked the icon and was taken to
www.protectpro.com who wish to sell me their antispyware program which I, of
course, do not want. I searched all files/folders including hidden ones and
did not find protectpro or any derivative of that name that I could think
of.
When I restart my computer, it returns, so there must be list somewhere
that tells what programs are initiated at start-up and where they are. Does
anyone know how to access that list or have any idea how I can get rid of
this loathsome annoyance? I am running Windows XP Media Centre Edition.
If I am asking in the wrong newsgroup, could you direct me to the
correct one?
Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.
Bryan
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