Downadup, kido, and conficker Repairing

Theory 1

BitDefender has released a free tool that removes all forms of Downadup/Conficker: Download Now!. There are both individual and network removal tools available.

Simply removing Downadup from you PC does not *fix* it - so please continue this checklist once the virus is removed!!! Once the virus is removed consider installing our recommended pc security software.. Bitdefender Total Security 2010

Theory 2 

 Fix Windows Registry Issues

This and many other viruses modify your Windows Registry. Most users already have Registry problems. The Windows registry is a directory which stores settings and options for your operating system, hardware, software, and user settings. First, try using the free scan from RegDefense to check your registry.

Theory 3 

Disable AutoRun and Autoplay

AutoRun is a default fealture of Windows and enables media and devices to launch programs using commands listed in "autorun.inf", stored in the medium's root directory. AutoPlay was introduced in Windows XP. This function searches media and launches the appropriate application to play or display the content. If available, settings in an autorun.inf file can add to the options presented to the user. Malware creators love Autorun and AutoPlay because it is difficult to disable and easy to exploit
Thanks to Nick Brown we have an easy way for all Windows XP and Vista users to disable AutoRun and AutoPlay via a minor Windows Registry change. You should also use secure USB Flash Drives whenever possible. Complete manual instructions are on his blog. Here is a simple download based on his work that you can unzip and run to appy the fix.

1. Download this free zip file: DisableAuto 0.2 (Softpedia)
2. Unzip the file. It contains a reg file called disableauto.reg
3. Double-click on the Reg file to modify the Registry
4. Reboot Windows. AutoPlay and AutoRun should now be disabled. However, you can still access and run all your media manually

Testing Your Defenses

Want to make sure AutoRun and AutoPlay are disabled? ComputerWorld's Michael Horowitz has published a very simple test you can perform using your USB drive to make sure your AutoRun and AutoPlay functions are disabled.

Posted in: Computer tricks