Corrupted Windows XP OS

[Guest remixed]

Sometime ago i donated a HP Pc running XP Pro to a friend. A couple of days ago i received a call for help, her computer had 'locked' her out and she was unable to access any of the files crucial to her business. After spending some time on the phone i have been able to establish some key details but unable to resolve the matter.

1; It is possible to boot (though very slow) and to logon user or admin.

2; No application will run i) because the file is not associated, or ii) because permission is denied.

3; It is not possible to run a cmd except in 'safemode with command prompt'.

4; Even shutdown is 'Permission Denied'

Things i have proposed:

1: In order to reset permissions so i can repair file associations i guided her to run the cmd > secedit /configure /cfg %windir%\repair\secsetup.inf /db secsetup.sdb /verbose < but this isonly possible under safemode with cp and freezes at 3%.

2; Microsoft fixit will not run from a flash key/cd.

3; System restore has become corrupted so not an option.

I can't propose she use a tool such as SubInACL (even with guidance, as her computer skills are limited).

I could send her the installation disc and guide her through a repair install but would prefer a 'lazy' solution as the disc is only SP 2.

Tips anyone

[AdvancedSetup]

From your description the computer appears to be infected and you should either assist them personally via phone, mail or send them to the HJT forum to have someone assist them in cleaning the system.

Please print out, read and follow the directions here, skipping any steps you are unable to complete. Then post a NEW topic here.

One of the expert helpers there will give you one-on-one assistance when one becomes available.

After posting your new post make sure under options that you select Track this topic and choose one of the Email options so that you're alerted when someon has replied to your post.

Alternatively, as a paying customer, you can contact the help desk at support@malwarebytes.org

[Guest remixed]

I have encountered this issue on a previous occassional and i'm pretty certain it's unrelated to infection, i wish it was that simple. Looks like i'll have to go over and sort it. Thanks anyway.