Vista security 2011 - Problems removing virus

[Kinoda]

Hi there

Recently, a friend of mine's computer was taken over by pop-ups asking her to download "Vista security 2011". Figuring they were caused by a virus, I googled around trying to find a way to remove it. I found what looked to be a good walkthrough, though I could be wrong. (Vista Security 2011 - Virus Solution and Removal)

She does not have a virus scanner on her computer (though I have since installed Mcafee, the only virus scanner at my disposal free of charge) so I tried going through the "Manual removal" steps, and hit a few speed bumps.

1. On the processes tab in windows task manager, I found the "random characters".exe, but the winupdate86.exe wasn't there.
2. The files I was told delete from the Windows Registry are not there, neither are the ones in the Startup tab in the System Configuration Utility.

While we did a scan with the new virus scanner, it found a large number of "Infected" files which it repaired (over 2,000, quarantining only two), but didn't affect the actual virus. (activity unaffected)

I'm a bit of a noob when it come to these things, usually using "trial and error" method when it comes to my computer (usually successful, might I add) but where this is not my own computer I would appreciate any help possible!

But before I go, one more (noob) question; The computer has not been turned off since she was first "attacked" by the virus. Because, the virus scanner has not been able to update, and refuses to scan before being reset. I'm wondering if it's safe to reset? I've always been told not to when you have a virus...

Sorry for rambling and being a pain! All and any feedback is greatly appreciated!
-Kinoda

[beafrank3]

Even for an expert, removing a computer virus can be a difficult task without the help of computer virus removal tools. Some computer viruses and other unwanted software, such as spyware, even reinstall themselves after the viruses have been detected and removed. Fortunately, by updating the computer and by using antivirus tools, you can help permanently remove unwanted software.

To remove a computer virus, follow these steps:

1. Install the latest updates from Microsoft Update on the computer.
2. Update the antivirus software on the computer. Then, perform a thorough scan of the computer by using the antivirus software.
3. Download, install, and then run the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool to remove existing viruses on the computer.
4. List of Antivirus software: Avira, Avast, AVG, BitDefender, Dr. Web, Kaspersky, Norton, McAfee etc...

[osprey4]

Reformat and reinstall. Works every time.

[smartjenny]

The valid removal instructions for this are at bleeping computer -

If you cannot successfully follow those instructions,for what ever reason,then back up any files you can and re-install the OS.You may have a Windows CD/DVD or there may be a recovery partition on the hard drive.Whichever is the case that is the only option.Sometimes it is easier to re-install than try to remove malware.