(no subject)

[remindmeofthe]

Um. I seem to have a really interesting situation with my laptop.

I explained about the virus that required me to reinstall Windows in order to keep my CD-ROM working, 'cos my aintvirus software apparently bound it to my CD-ROM driver, right? Right.

So. Um. I reinstalled Windows, and my CD-ROM is working fine, but here is where the interesting thing comes in: I have poked around a bit on my hard drive, and apparently I did not so much wipe away my old version as I did, uh, layer over it. I have discovered that it is still there, complete with all the files I had on it.

So, my question: Is it at all safe to access any of those files to back them up, or do I risk unleashing that virus again? Alternately, in order to free up space on my harddrive once more, should I reinstall Windows yet again, following a different method than I used before? Or should I just say FUCK IT ALL, borrow more more from my financial aid, and replace my currently defunct Mac?

Comments

[iarwain.livejournal.com]

Install a good antivirus first and update it THEN scan everything. Then do it all over again with a second antivirus.

I suggest Avira and AVG.

THEN you MIGHT be able to use your old files.

Virii are funny things. People keep re-writing them and breaking the rules and stuff...

[remindmeofthe.livejournal.com]

Thank you very much. I will set aside some time to do this.

[iarwain.livejournal.com]

You know, if you REALLY need, I'm running a computer Spring Cleaning deal at Just Works... $99 till the end of April.

[remindmeofthe.livejournal.com]

If I find a way to get out there, and I have the extra cash, I am all over that.

[vivien]

I am pretty sure some of my friends might know how to resolve this, so I gave a shout out. Just in case strangers wander by with advice. :)

[remindmeofthe.livejournal.com]

Thanks! That's very much appreciated.