Ok this is a bit of a broken record with all of the spyware/malware problems.
I wanted to create a post that others can refer to as a generic TRY THESE SOLUTIONS for all of the spyware threads
What is Spyware
Suggested Appilcations:
These applications can help to remove the problems from your machine.
(suggested applications have a free version)
AdAware SE (Updated around early August so make sure you have the new version!)
Spybot - Search & Destroy CWShredder Specific to CoolWebSearch (and variants) spyware but its spreading rapidly and is causing a lot of problems.
Microsoft AntiSpyware Beta Works pretty well, and may clean things the other two do not.
If these utilities fail to clean up the problem please run
HijackThis
This application will create a log of all installed and running applications.
Please create a thread and include a copy of this log so we can determine what the problem is.
When giving a subject line for your thread, do not use "Help". Use a more descriptive subject like "Problem with spyware"
Important:
Once you install Spybot/AdAware/MS Antispyware PLEASE run its update process!
Anti Spyware utilities need to be updated just like antivirus utilities so they must have the latest reference files to be successful.
(if anybody has a few moments post up a quick tutorial how to do it in each application please do so)
Also note that some "Anti Spyware" utilities ARE SPYWARE
They may work to clean up some spyware, but they may also install their own spyware so please stick with the popular solutions given above.
Another suggestion is to try using an online virus scanner such as
TrendMicro House Call
Do a full scan to make sure viruses are not causing the problem.
If you prefer you can install a free full application virus scanner.
Grisoft AVG Antivirus
Post any other suggestions, and maybe we can get it stickied.