cant open ,txt files anymore

[jenniferleekass]

i think that i have a trojan that wont allow me to open *.txt files. the message that comes up says it is not a valid Win32 application

[Ned Seagoon]

Hi Jennifer

Welcome to CTH

Have you tried opening notepad from the start menu? Then opening the .txt file from inside notepad?

You may have some malware on your computer that has caused the problem that you see, and if you suspect you have some nasty the usual steps we recommend are to do some basic housekeeping on the computer first. Empty your recycle bin, delete your temporary internet files, empty your temporary folders of all files, then scan disk and defrag your hard drive.

After this, update your antivirus program and do a full scan. Install Ad-aware and Spybot Search and Destroy and do a scan with each. If these programs detect spyware etc, remove all items listed. If malware is detected install HijackThis and do a scan, post the log file, let an expert check to see if there is still any problem, and follow the experts advice. After the computer is clean install SpywareBlaster, to stop any further attacks.

If you decide to go down this track take a look at the stickies in the Cyber Safety forum for downloads and guidance.

Good luck.

[0n3]

spywareblaster wont do anything to remove a trojan or virus for that matter, neither will hijack this. they tend to come back more repeatedly that way. i would advise an online virus scan. perhaps this one @ http://www.trendmicro.com (http://www.trendmicro.com)

[Ned Seagoon]

Hi ON3

Thankyou for your illuminating response, now read my response again.
update your antivirus program and do a full scan

Good luck Jennifer. :wave: