Search Protector by Spigot?

[GiggleSnort]

Hello, I am new.  Today, I installed utorrent and then winrar.  I'm not sure which one was the one that came with this Search protector, I think it was Winrar though.  I have removed all three things now, Winrar, Search Protector, and uTorrent.  When I tried removing Search Protector, it said it was maybe not properly removed.  Then my Anti-Virus told me to remove it and I think I did, but I am not completely sure.  It is gone from programs list, but I am still very worried about this.

 

I looked up a topic from this year by using the homepage it would send me to when I opened Firefox.  "https://search.yahoo.com/?type=903578&fr=spigot-yhp-ff"  and it led me to this https://forums.malwarebytes.org/index.php?/topic/143255-httpsearchyahoocomtype714647frspigot-yhp-ch/

 

I was hoping to get some sort of help maybe?  I wanted to follow the directions there but I have no idea what the logs mean.  I have downloaded and installed malwarebytes and am currently doing a full scan, it has currently found 7 items, which are labed as PUP.   I will quarantine them as that is probably the best option it has.  I don't see remove. 

 

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
www.malwarebytes.org

Scan Date: 8/21/2014
Scan Time: 12:44:41 AM
Logfile:
Administrator: Yes

Version: 2.00.2.1012
Malware Database: v2014.08.21.02
Rootkit Database: v2014.08.16.01
License: Trial
Malware Protection: Enabled
Malicious Website Protection: Enabled
Self-protection: Disabled

OS: Windows 8.1
CPU: x64
File System: NTFS
User: Miguel

Scan Type: Threat Scan
Result: Completed
Objects Scanned: 347780
Time Elapsed: 35 min, 21 sec

Memory: Enabled
Startup: Enabled
Filesystem: Enabled
Archives: Enabled
Rootkits: Disabled
Heuristics: Enabled
PUP: Enabled
PUM: Enabled

Processes: 1
PUP.Optional.SearchProtection.A, C:\Users\Miguel\AppData\Roaming\Search Protection\SearchProtection.exe, 11944, , [d46218b1d3a8d462734c799a9f64d42c]

Modules: 0
(No malicious items detected)

Registry Keys: 2
PUP.Optional.BrowserSafeGuard.A, HKU\S-1-5-21-2570686920-1633937303-4001665767-1001-{ED1FC765-E35E-4C3D-BF15-2C2B11260CE4}-0\SOFTWARE\BrowserSafeguardInstalled, , [31056c5d3b40ed498276a94604fed52b],
PUP.Optional.MyEmoticons.A, HKU\S-1-5-21-2570686920-1633937303-4001665767-1001-{ED1FC765-E35E-4C3D-BF15-2C2B11260CE4}-0\SOFTWARE\APPDATALOW\SOFTWARE\Search Protection, , [f54115b4453691a537f9aa6553b0e21e],

Registry Values: 1
PUP.Optional.SearchProtection.A, HKU\S-1-5-21-2570686920-1633937303-4001665767-1001-{ED1FC765-E35E-4C3D-BF15-2C2B11260CE4}-0\SOFTWARE\MICROSOFT\WINDOWS\CURRENTVERSION\RUN|SearchProtection, "C:\Users\Miguel\AppData\Roaming\Search Protection\SearchProtection.EXE" /autostart, , [d46218b1d3a8d462734c799a9f64d42c]

Registry Data: 1
PUP.Optional.Spigot.A, HKU\S-1-5-21-2570686920-1633937303-4001665767-1001-{ED1FC765-E35E-4C3D-BF15-2C2B11260CE4}-0\SOFTWARE\MICROSOFT\INTERNET EXPLORER\MAIN|Start Page, https://search.yahoo.com/?type=903578&fr=spigot-yhp-ie, Good: (www.google.com), Bad: (https://search.yahoo.com/?type=903578&fr=spigot-yhp-ie),,[0f27d6f33447d264b090597627dd9769]

Folders: 2
PUP.Optional.BrowserSafeGuard, C:\Users\Miguel\AppData\Local\BrowserSafeguard, , [d75f17b21c5fa19582ae805efa08f40c],
PUP.Optional.BrowserSafeGuard, C:\Program Files (x86)\BrowserSafeguard, , [62d4ccfd87f476c072c5ba27a161e917],

Files: 5
PUP.Optional.Spigot, C:\Users\Miguel\AppData\Local\Temp\uttB4AB.tmp.exe, , [171f3f8a4f2ced492b6e129438c98d73],
PUP.Optional.OpenCandy, C:\Users\Miguel\AppData\Local\Temp\uttF3E.tmp, , [9d993891b5c6a69072f924db51b39967],
PUP.Optional.SearchProtection.A, C:\Users\Miguel\AppData\Roaming\Search Protection\SearchProtection.exe, , [d46218b1d3a8d462734c799a9f64d42c],
PUP.Optional.BrowserSafeGuard, C:\Users\Miguel\AppData\Local\BrowserSafeguard\cookies.dat, , [d75f17b21c5fa19582ae805efa08f40c],
PUP.Optional.BrowserSafeGuard, C:\Program Files (x86)\BrowserSafeguard\uninstall.BrowserSafeguard.exe, , [62d4ccfd87f476c072c5ba27a161e917],

Physical Sectors: 0
(No malicious items detected)


(end)

 

 

I have attached the logs, I would really appreciate the help.  I am very scared. 

Malwarebytesfullscan.txt

Bytescan.xml

[GiggleSnort]

I have quarantined all it had found and then restarted computer as it told me to do.  It is very late for me right now, I must go sleep.  I hope someone can help me out when it is not so late!

 

I see now where I can delete them from computer, I will leave them in quarantine for now until someone can help me tomorrow. 

 

Also, excuse this second post, wasn't sure how to edit first.

[TwinHeadedEagle]

Hello,
    
 
They call me TwinHeadedEagle around here, and I'll be working with you.
 
    
 
    
Before we start please read and note the following:

• Limit your internet access to posting here, some infections just wait to steal typed-in passwords.
• Please be patient. I know it is frustrating when your PC isn't working properly, but malware removal takes time.
• Don't run any scripts or tools on your own, unsupervised usage may cause more harm than good.
• Do not paste the logs in your posts, attachments make my work easier. There is a Upload Files option below which you can use to attach your reports. Always attach reports from all tools.
• Stay with me to the end, the absence of symptoms doesn't mean that your machine is fully operational.
• Note that we may live in totally different time zones, what may cause some delays between answers.
• Do not ask for help for your business PC. Companies are making revenue via computers, so it is good thing to pay someone to repair it.
• If I don't hear from you within 3 days from this initial or any subsequent post, then this thread will be closed.

I can't foresee everything, so if anything unexpected happens, please stop and inform me!
There are no silly questions. Never be afraid to ask if in doubt!
 
 
 
  Rules and policies
 
We won't support any piracy.
That being told, if any evidence of illegal OS, software, cracks/keygens or any other will be revealed, any further assistance will be suspended. If you are aware that there is this kind of stuff on your machine, remove it before proceeding!
The same applies to any use of P2P software: uTorrent, BitTorrent, Vuze, Kazaa, Ares... We don't provide any help for P2P, except for their removal. All P2P software has to be uninstalled or at least fully disabled before proceeding!
 
Failure to follow these guidelines will result with closing your topic and withdrawning any assistance.
 
 
 
 
 

Please download Farbar Recovery Scan Tool and save it to your desktop.
 
Note: You need to run the version compatibale with your system. If you are not sure which version applies to your system download both of them and try to run them.
Only one of them will run on your system, that will be the right version.

• Double-click to run it. When the tool opens click Yes to disclaimer.
• Press Scan button.
• It will make a log (FRST.txt) in the same directory the tool is run. Please attach it to your reply.
• The first time the tool is run, it makes also another log (Addition.txt). Please attach it to your reply.

[GiggleSnort]

Hello, Mr TwinHeadedEagle!

 

I tried using that but my Norton said it was dangerous and removed it.  Should I turn Norton off or what?

[GiggleSnort]

Okay, it let me run it finally.  I will attach the files.  Also, am I okay to remove the PUPs that Malwarebytes found?

FRST.txt

Addition.txt

[TwinHeadedEagle]

Fix with Farbar Recovery Scan Tool

This fix was created for this user for use on that particular machine.
Running it on another one may cause damage and render the system unstable.

Download attached fixlist.txt file and save it to the Desktop:

Both files, FRST and fixlist.txt have to be in the same location or the fix will not work!

• Right-click on icon and select Run as Administrator to start the tool.
  (XP users click run after receipt of Windows Security Warning - Open File).
• Press the Fix button just once and wait.
• If for some reason the tool needs a restart, please make sure you let the system restart normally. After that let the tool complete its run.
• When finished FRST will generate a log on the Desktop, called Fixlog.txt.

Please post it to your reply.




Scan with Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware

Please re-run Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware.

• First of all, select update.
• Once updated, click the Settings tab, in the left panel choose Detctions & protection and tick Scan for rootkits.
• Click the Scan tab, choose Threat Scan is checked and click Scan Now.
• If threats are detected, click the Apply Actions button. You will now be prompted to reboot. Click Yes.
• Upon completion of the scan (or after the reboot), click the History tab.
• Click Application Logs and double-click the newest Scan Log.
• At the bottom click Export and choose Text file.

Save the file to your desktop and include its content in your next reply.

fixlist.txt

[GiggleSnort]

Phew, looks like that cleared my internet history?

 

Okay, I have done both and will now attach the files.  Nothing was found with Malwarebytes.

threatscan.txt

Fixlog.txt

[TwinHeadedEagle]

Phew, looks like that cleared my internet history?

 

Okay, I have done both and will now attach the files.  Nothing was found with Malwarebytes.

 

It is one of routines, sorry. Sometimes there are malicious links stored in your history, and we clean it along with temporary files and cache.

 

 

How is your PC now?

[GiggleSnort]

It is one of routines, sorry. Sometimes there are malicious links stored in your history, and we clean it along with temporary files and cache.

 

 

How is your PC now?

Ah, no problem. 

 

Well, there seems to be nothing wrong with it now.  There was nothing found my Malwarebytes.  Firefox seems to be working fine.  Maybe even better than it had been.  Do you think it all has been removed now?

 

Also, do I keep the quarantined items quarantined or delete them? 

[TwinHeadedEagle]

Well, there seems to be nothing wrong with it now.  There was nothing found my Malwarebytes.  Firefox seems to be working fine.  Maybe even better than it had been.  Do you think it all has been removed now?

 

Yes, I think your PC seems clean. However, we will run just one more tool to clean possible remnants.

 

 

Also, do I keep the quarantined items quarantined or delete them?

 

It is up to you. They are quarantined and cannot make harm, but if you are going to feel safer, then empty your quarantine.

 

 

 

Fix with AdwCleaner

 

Please download AdwCleaner by Xplode and save the file to your desktop.

• Right-click on icon and select Run as Administrator to start the tool.
• Follow the prompts and click Scan.
• When finished, please click Clean.
• Upon completion, click Report. A log (AdwCleaner[s*].txt) will open.

Please include the contents of that file in your reply.

[GiggleSnort]

Okay, I will do this later today, it's very late now and I must sleep. Have a nice day.

[GiggleSnort]

Okay, made me restart after cleaning.

 

# AdwCleaner v3.308 - Report created 22/08/2014 at 12:15:19
# Updated 20/08/2014 by Xplode
# Operating System : Windows 8.1  (64 bits)
# Username : Miguel - XTREME
# Running from : C:\Users\Miguel\Desktop\AdwCleaner.exe
# Option : Clean

***** [ Services ] *****


***** [ Files / Folders ] *****


***** [ Scheduled Tasks ] *****


***** [ Shortcuts ] *****


***** [ Registry ] *****

Key Deleted : HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Extension Compatibility\{74F475FA-6C75-43BD-AAB9-ECDA6184F600}
Key Deleted : HKLM\SOFTWARE\BrowserSafeGuard

***** [ Browsers ] *****

-\\ Internet Explorer v11.0.9600.17239


-\\ Mozilla Firefox v31.0 (x86 en-US)

[ File : C:\Users\g_ros_000\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\qu8yu4tf.default\prefs.js ]


[ File : C:\Users\Miguel\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\3wi9d2yr.default\prefs.js ]


*************************

AdwCleaner[R0].txt - [1052 octets] - [22/08/2014 12:13:37]
AdwCleaner[s0].txt - [979 octets] - [22/08/2014 12:15:19]

########## EOF - C:\AdwCleaner\AdwCleaner[s0].txt - [1038 octets] ##########
 

[TwinHeadedEagle]

Your clean, and good to go
 
 
 
Below you will find my thoughts about securing your machine. Go ahead through it, you will benefit from some useful advice about safe computing. 
 
 

Recommended reading:

 
 
MUST READ - security tips:

• Computer Security - a short guide to staying safer online.

• Simple and easy ways to keep your computer safe and secure on the Internet

MUST READ - general maintenance:

• What to do if your Computer is running slowly?

The Importance of Software Updating:

 

 
In order to stay protected it is very important that you regularly update all of your software. Cybercriminals depend on the apathy of users around software updates to keep their malicious endeavor running.
 
Operating systems, such as Windows, and applications, such as Adobe Reader or JAVA, are used by tens of millions of computers and devices around the world, making them a huge target for cybercriminals. Downloading updates and installing them can sometimes be tedious, but the advantages you get from the updates are certainly worth it.

• How to configure and use Automatic Updates in Windows
• How to update Java
• How to update Adobe Reader

Recommended additional software:

 
 
TFC - to clean unneeded temporary files.
Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware - to scan your system from time to time in search for malware.
Malwarebytes' Anti-Exploit - to prevent plenty of mostly exploited vulnerabilities.
McShield - to prevent infections spread by removable media.
CryptoPrevent - to secure yourself from very severe CryptoLocker infection.
Unchecky - to prevent from installing additional foistware, implemented in legitimate installations.
FiheHippo.com Update Checker - to keep your programs up-to-date.
Adblock - to surf the web without annoying ads! 
 
 

Post-cleanup procedures:

 

 
Download DelFix by Xplode and save it to your desktop.

• Run the tool by right click on the icon and Run as administrator option.
• Make sure that these ones are checked:
  • Remove disinfection tools
  • Purge system restore
  • Reset system settings
• Push Run.
• The program will run for a few seconds and display a notepad report. You do not need to attach it.

The tool will also record healthy state of registry and make a backup using ERUNT program in %windir%\ERUNT\DelFix
Tool deletes old system restore points and create a fresh system restore point after cleaning. 
 
 
 

My help is free for everybody.

If you're happy with the help provided and/or wish to buy me a beer for the assistance you received, then you can consider a donation:

Thank you!

 
 
Stay safe,
TwinHeadedEagle  

[GiggleSnort]

Hello, I have read those now, thank you. 

 

I have another question, do icons in system tray mean anything?  I checked after I ran Delfix and it had only about four of my usual icons in the tray.  When I click customize I see that there is an icon for two things I'm not sure why are there?  The mod_frst.exe maybe is from FRST thing you had me do, I'm not sure.  Then there is the uTorrent icon, which I had removed when I first posted this topic, I don't know why is it still there.  Then there is the last one, the RocketTab.  I'm not sure what that is.  They don't appear in my active ones, just in the customize thing.  is this something to worry about?  I attached some screenshots to show you!

[TwinHeadedEagle]

These are just cached icons, they are not active. But if you wish to remove them, you can do it using CCleaner.

 

 

Download CCleaner from here --> http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download/standard

 

Open it and then you need to check highlighted box just like on picture below. Press Run Cleaner after that.

 

[GiggleSnort]

Ah, okay. 

 

Thank you SO much for helping me out through all this!  Hopefully my donation is enough to buy you beer.  I am not sure how much beer costs.

 

THANK YOU!!  

[TwinHeadedEagle]

Don't worry, you're more than welcome
 
 
 
Below you will find my thoughts about securing your machine. Go ahead through it, you will benefit from some useful advice about safe computing. 
 
 

Recommended reading:

 
 
MUST READ - security tips:

• Computer Security - a short guide to staying safer online.

• Simple and easy ways to keep your computer safe and secure on the Internet

MUST READ - general maintenance:

• What to do if your Computer is running slowly?

The Importance of Software Updating:

 

 
In order to stay protected it is very important that you regularly update all of your software. Cybercriminals depend on the apathy of users around software updates to keep their malicious endeavor running.
 
Operating systems, such as Windows, and applications, such as Adobe Reader or JAVA, are used by tens of millions of computers and devices around the world, making them a huge target for cybercriminals. Downloading updates and installing them can sometimes be tedious, but the advantages you get from the updates are certainly worth it.

• How to configure and use Automatic Updates in Windows
• How to update Java
• How to update Adobe Reader

Recommended additional software:

 
 
TFC - to clean unneeded temporary files.
Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware - to scan your system from time to time in search for malware.
Malwarebytes' Anti-Exploit - to prevent plenty of mostly exploited vulnerabilities.
McShield - to prevent infections spread by removable media.
CryptoPrevent - to secure yourself from very severe CryptoLocker infection.
Unchecky - to prevent from installing additional foistware, implemented in legitimate installations.
FiheHippo.com Update Checker - to keep your programs up-to-date.
Adblock - to surf the web without annoying ads! 
 
 

Post-cleanup procedures:

 

 
Download DelFix by Xplode and save it to your desktop.

• Run the tool by right click on the icon and Run as administrator option.
• Make sure that these ones are checked:
  • Remove disinfection tools
  • Purge system restore
  • Reset system settings
• Push Run.
• The program will run for a few seconds and display a notepad report. You do not need to attach it.

The tool will also record healthy state of registry and make a backup using ERUNT program in %windir%\ERUNT\DelFix
Tool deletes old system restore points and create a fresh system restore point after cleaning. 
 
 
 

My help is free for everybody.

If you're happy with the help provided and/or wish to buy me a beer for the assistance you received, then you can consider a donation:

Thank you!

 
 
Stay safe,
TwinHeadedEagle  

[AdvancedSetup]

Glad we could help.

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