Quote Originally Posted by jholland1964 View Post
Hey, let the Eset scanner run and remove the baddies. Once that is done then try removing that folder in normal mode. You want to get all remainders of the former user off that you can...sounds like he had not paid careful attention to anything. Also be sure to get those old anti-virus programs off of there too.
jholland, good morning/afternoon to you. i'm very appreciative with your help and had to prematurely stop yesterday afternoon. i'm back and have the latest details to note. these steps were completed yesterday afternoon:

1. re-ran the eset scanner and check-marked 'remove found threats'
2. removed the 'complete' folder in normal mode start-up
3. previous anti-virus programs were already removed
4. new anti-virus program (avira) installed and scanned with report to follow
5. new firewall program (zone alarm) installed and engaged

these steps will be completed this morning:
1. re-run eset scanner again; please advise what i need to check-mark, 'remove found threats' or 'scan unwanted applications' with report to follow.

2. re-run new anti-virus program with report to follow.

3. re-run hijackthis scan again with report to follow

happy monday.
melissay