i have a virus on my computer that basically stops me from running any programme on my lap top except anything to do with the internet. for exampl if i go to "my documents" i get told that for data protection it has to be shut down followed by a message saying that windows has experianced a problem and needs to be shut down.it even stops my anti virus from working while its scanning. so er help

chris, September 2007

Hi Chris

Without knowing the problem, this sounds like some kind of spyware that is interfering with your registry.

Try using Spybot Search & Destroy from http://www.safer-networking.org. Download it install it, update it, immunise and run a scan. One of Spybot's tricks is to restart your computer (with your permission) and to then get in ahead of any spyware before it loads.

When it is done, you may need to reset your antivirus.

Also, take a look at startup monitor from www.mlin.net which will tell you if any software tries to change what happens when windows starts and can stop things changing without your permission.

Peter, October 2007