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Desk365 Complete Removal - PUP Removal Guide

What is Desk365?

Desk 365 is a program developed by 337 Technology Limited and is classified as a potentially unwanted application by a number of Antiviruses. While not technically malware, for many users it is unwanted as it is often distributed as a bundle with other downloads. It allows a fast way to access your shortcuts and applications. Upon installation this program will insert itself into the system registry, adding startup strings to allow it to automatically start every time your system is restarted.
The software adds a scheduled windows task to allow it to reopen itself even when closed. The applications also access the internet and add firewall rules to your system, that allow it to access anything without restrictions.

The main executable file for this application is Dock365.exe. It is possible to delete this file preventing the application to run, but its monitoring services and registry entities remain hidden inside your computer.

The software sends browsing information back to its ad servers, displaying custom ads and sponsored products instead of the usual search results. And the app itself pins itself to the start menu and cannot be removed.

About Potentially Unwanted Applications

Have you ever discovered an unwanted program on your PC that you didn’t consciously download and never gave authorization to be installed? Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUP), also referred to as Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUA), are applications that you never wanted in the first place and often come bundled with freeware. Once installed, the majority of these applications can be difficult to eliminate and become much more of an annoyance rather than a necessity.

PUPs did not actually constitute pure “malware” in the strict sense of the definition. What normally makes a PUP different from malicious software is that whenever you download one, you’re doing it with your consent – though in many instances unconsciously and unwillingly. A PUP may not be regarded as malicious or unsafe yet still, it’s a common cause of clunky OS’s; some PUPs are a lot more aggressive by intentionally slowing down your computer or laptop.

Exactly how do unwanted programs look like?

Potentially Unwanted Programs can be found in different forms and varieties, but in the majority of cases, these are typically adware programs that exhibit irritating pop-up adverts and advertisements on websites you check out. They even come in the form of browser extension toolbars and add-ons. Not only they needlessly take up space on your screen, but toolbars can also manipulate search engine results, keep an eye on your surfing activities, decrease your internet browser’s efficiency, and slow down your internet connection to a crawl.

PUPs load up a dangerous bite if left unchecked. They could include keyloggers, dialers, and other program built into them which could track you or send your sensitive information to third parties. Typically, such software will disable security protections and configuration settings to take control over your computer or laptop, leaving that PC vulnerable to online hackers and data fraud. At a minimum, PUPs slow your computer down with every added program.

Tips on how to prevent PUPs

• Read the fine print so that the end-user license agreement (EULA) you are accepting is only for the software you primarily intend to download.
• Choose the “custom” install whenever installing an application. Especially, look closely at those small boxes which have been checked as default, where you may ‘agree’ to receive promotions or install software bundlers.
• Use an anti-PUP program. Security applications such as Safebytes Anti-Malware gives the very best real-time protection against PUPs and also other malware.
• Be alert if you download and install freeware, open-source programs, or shareware. Nowadays ‘freeware’ isn’t actually freeware – but “crapware” bundling nonsense.
• Always download software from trustworthy sources like official websites rather than untrustworthy sharing space. Avoid file-hosting sites where/when possible.

What To Do If You Cannot Download Safebytes Anti-Malware?

Every malware is detrimental and the level of the damage can vary greatly according to the type of infection. Some malware is designed to restrict or prevent things that you wish to do on your PC. It may well not permit you to download anything from the web or prevent you from accessing some or all internet sites, in particular the antivirus sites. If you are reading this, chances are you’re stuck with a virus infection that is preventing you to download or install Safebytes Anti-Malware software on your computer system. There are a few fixes you could try to get around with this particular problem.

Download the software in Safe Mode with Networking
The Windows-based PC comes with a special mode known as “Safe Mode” in which just the minimum required programs and services are loaded. If the malicious software is set to load immediately when PC boots, shifting into this mode may well prevent it from doing so. To get into Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking, press the F8 key while the system is starting up or run MSCONFIG and look for the “Safe Boot” options in the “Boot” tab. After you restart the PC into Safe Mode with Networking, you can download, install, and update the anti-malware program from there. At this point, you could run the anti-virus scan to eliminate viruses and malware without any hindrance from another malicious application.

Switch over to an alternate web browser

Some malware mainly targets specific internet browsers. If this sounds like your situation, use another internet browser as it might circumvent the malware. If you are not able to download the anti-virus software using Internet Explorer, it means the virus could be targeting IE’s vulnerabilities. Here, you need to switch to a different internet browser such as Chrome or Firefox to download Safebytes Anti-malware software.

Install and run anti-virus from your flash drive

Another option would be to create a portable anti-malware program on your USB stick. To run antivirus from a thumb drive, follow these simple steps:
1) Make use of another virus-free computer to download Safebytes Anti-Malware.
2) Plug in the pen drive to a USB port on the uninfected computer.
3) Double-click the Setup icon of the antivirus software package to run the Installation Wizard.
4) When asked, choose the location of the USB drive as the place in which you want to put the software files. Follow activation instructions.
5) Now, insert the USB drive into the infected PC.
6) Run the Safebytes Anti-malware directly from the flash drive by double-clicking the icon.
7) Run Full System Scan to detect and clean-up up all kinds of malware.

If all the above approaches fail to help you in downloading the anti-malware, then you’ve no alternative but to reinstall the computer’s operating system to wipe out all the data, including the malicious programs which are obstructing the anti-malware installation. If you are already our customer, technical help for Malware Removal is just a phone call away. Call 1-844-377-4107 to speak to our expert technicians and get assistance remotely.

Let's Talk About SafeBytes Anti-Malware!

To help protect your computer from many different internet-based threats, it’s very important to install anti-malware software on your personal computer. But with so many antimalware companies out there, nowadays it’s tough to decide which one you should obtain for your PC. A few are good ones, some are decent, and some are merely fake anti-malware programs that will harm your PC themselves! You need to be very careful not to pick the wrong product, especially if you buy a paid program. On the list of the highly recommended tools by industry experts is SafeBytes Anti-Malware, well-known security software for Windows computers.

Safebytes is among the well-established computer solutions firms, which offer this comprehensive anti-malware software program. Using its outstanding protection system, this utility will quickly detect and eliminate the majority of the security threats, including viruses, adware, browser hijackers, ransomware, PUPs, and trojans.

SafeBytes anti-malware offers an array of advanced features which sets it apart from all others. Listed below are some of the highlighted features included in the tool.

Real-time Threat Response: SafeBytes delivers complete and real-time security for your PC. It will inspect your computer for suspicious activity continuously and shields your personal computer from unauthorized access.

Optimum AntiMalware Protection: This deep-cleaning anti-malware software goes much deeper than most antivirus tools to clean your computer. Its critically acclaimed virus engine finds and disables hard-to-remove malware that conceals deep within your computer.

Web Filtering: SafeBytes gives an instant safety rating about the web pages you’re about to visit, automatically blocking harmful sites and ensuring that you are certain of your online safety while browsing the net.

Light-weight: This software program is not “heavy” on your computer’s resources, so you will not notice any performance issues when SafeBytes is working in the background.

24/7 Online Support: You can obtain high levels of support round the clock if you’re using their paid version.

Overall, SafeBytes Anti-Malware is a solid program since it has plenty of features and can identify and remove any potential threats. You can rest assured that your computer will be protected in real-time once you put this tool to use. For optimum protection and the best bang for your buck, you can’t get better than SafeBytes Anti-Malware.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you wish to manually remove Desk365 without the use of an automated tool, it may be possible to do so by removing the program from the Windows Add/Remove Programs menu, or in cases of browser extensions, going to the browsers AddOn/Extension manager and removing it. You will likely also want to reset your browser.

To ensure the complete removal, manually check your hard drive and registry for all of the following and remove or reset the values accordingly. Please note that this is for advanced users only and may be difficult, with incorrect file removal causing additional PC errors. In addition, some malware is capable of replicating or preventing deletion. Doing this in Safe Mode is advised.

The following files, folders, and registry entries are created or modified by Desk365

Files:
File $APPDATACheckRun22find.exe.
File $APPDATADesk 365accelerate.
File $APPDATADesk 365desk_bkg_list.xml.
File $APPDATADesk 365desk_list.xml.
File $APPDATADesk 365desk_settings.ini.
File $APPDATADesk 365firstrun.
File $APPDATADesk 365process_mgr.xml.
File $APPDATADesk 365promote.xml.
File $APPDATAeDownloadfindhpnt_v2.exe.
File $APPDATAMicrosoftInternet ExplorerQuick Launchfind.lnk.
File $COMMONPROGRAMSDesk 365Desk 365.lnk.
File $COMMONPROGRAMSDesk 365eUninstall.lnk.
File $DESKTOPfind.lnk.
File $LOCALAPPDATAGoogleChromeUser DataDefaultExtensionsnewtab.crx.
File $LOCALSETTINGSTempV9Zip_003Desk365.exe.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365desk_bkg_list.xml.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365desk_list.xml.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365desk_settings.ini.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365desk365.exe.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365deskSvc.exe.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365ebase.dll.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365edeskcmn.dll.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365eDhelper.exe.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365eDhelper64.exe.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365edis.dll.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365edis64.dll.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365ElexDbg.dll.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365eUninstall.exe.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365libpng.dll.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365main.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365ouilibnl.dll.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365process_mgr.xml.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365promote.xml.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365recent.xml.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365sqlite3.dll.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365svc.conf.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365TrayDownloader.exe.
File $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365zlib1.dll.
File $PROGRAMFILESMozilla Firefoxsearchpluginsfind.xml.
File $SENDTODesk 365.lnk.
Directory $APPDATADesk 365.
Directory $APPDATAeDownload.
Directory $COMMONPROGRAMFILES7.
Directory $COMMONPROGRAMSDesk 365.
Directory $LOCALSETTINGSTempDesk365.
Directory $LOCALSETTINGSTempV9Zip_003.
Directory $PROGRAMFILESDesk 365.

Registry:
Key 33BB0A4E-99AF-4226-BDF6-49120163DE86 at HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftInternet ExplorerSearchScopes.
Key deskSvc at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE.
Key desksvc at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMControlSet001Services.
Key desksvc at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMControlSet001ServicesEventlogApplication.
Key desksvc at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetServices.
Key desksvc at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetServicesEventlogApplication.
Key findSoftware at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE.
Key ijblflkdjdopkpdgllkmlbgcffjbnfda at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREGoogleChromeExtensions.
Key lnkguard at HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftware.
Key V9 at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE.

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Fix NO_USER_MODE_CONTEXT in Windows
If you have encountered the NO_USER_MODE_CONTEXT Blue Screen error when using your computer, read on as this post will walk you through a couple of suggestions you can try to resolve this Stop error. This kind of Blue Screen error can occur when a program is trying to leverage the use of a system driver but fails to do so. Some of the common causes of this BSOD error are incompatible or corrupted drivers, incorrect configuration of entries in the Registry, damaged memory locations, malware infection, and many more. In addition, this Stop error does not often occur and indicates that an attempt to enter user mode with no context was made. If this is the first time you’ve restarted your computer after you’ve installed additional hardware, you have to remove the hardware and then restart your computer once again and then check the Microsoft Hardware Compatibility List to confirm that the hardware and its drivers are compatible with your operating system. If it doesn’t help, you can check out the given suggestions below to fix the NO_USER_MODE_CONTEXT Blue Screen error in Windows 10.

Option 1 – Try to update or rollback your device drivers

The first thing you can try to fix the NO_USER_MODE_CONTEXT Blue Screen error is to either update or roll back the device drivers. It is most likely that after you updated your Windows computer that your driver also needs a refresh. On the other hand, if you have just updated your device drivers then you need to roll back the drivers to their previous versions. Whichever applies to you, refer to the steps below.
  • Open the Devices Manager from the Win X Menu.
  • Then locate the device drivers and right-click on them to open the Properties. Note that the main drivers that might be the cause behind the NO_USER_MODE_CONTEXT Blue Screen error will be listed under the “ID ATA/ATAPI controllers” section as well as the “Storage controllers” section.
  • After that, switch to the Driver tab and click on the Uninstall Device button.
  • Follow the screen option to completely uninstall it.
  • Finally, restart your computer. It will just reinstall the device drivers automatically.
Note: You can also directly download the relevant drivers of your computer from the manufacturers’ website. So if you have an SSD, the issue might be due to an old storage driver.

Option 2 – Try running System File Checker or SFC scan

System File Checker or SFC is a built-in command utility that helps in restoring corrupted files as well as missing files. It replaces bad and corrupted system files to good system files. To run the SFC command, follow the steps given below.
  • Tap Win + R to launch Run.
  • Type in cmd in the field and tap Enter.
  • After opening Command Prompt, type in sfc /scannow
The command will start a system scan which will take a few whiles before it finishes. Once it’s done, you could get the following results:
  1. Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.
  2. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them.
  3. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.
 Reboot your PC.

Option 3 – Try running the Memory Diagnostic Tool

The Memory Diagnostic tool in windows can help resolve the NO_USER_MODE_CONTEXT Blue Screen error by checking and automatically fixing any memory-based issues. To run it, refer to these steps:
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open Run and type exe and hit Enter to open the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool.
  • After that, it will give two options such as:
    • Restart now and check for problems (Recommended)
    • Check for problems the next time I start my computer
  • Once your computer has restarted, perform a basic scan or you could also go for the “Advanced” options such as “Test mix” or “Pass count”. Simply tap the F10 key to start the test.
Note: After you select your preferred option, your computer will restart and check for memory-based issues. If it finds any issues, it will automatically fix them.

Option 4 – Perform System Restore

  • First, tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • After that, type in “sysdm.cpl” in the field and tap Enter.
  • Next, go to the System Protection tab then click the System Restore button. This will open a new window where you have to select your preferred System Restore point.
  • After that, follow the on-screen instructions to finish the process and then restart your computer and check if the problem is fixed or not.

Option 5 – Run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter

Troubleshooting Blue Screen of Death errors wouldn’t be complete without the Blue Screen troubleshooter. As you know, it is a built-in tool in Windows 10 that helps users in fixing BSOD errors like NO_USER_MODE_CONTEXT. It can be found on the Settings Troubleshooters page. To use it, refer to these steps:
  • Tap the Win + I keys to open the Settings panel.
  • Then go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  • From there, look for the option called “Blue Screen” on your right-hand side and then click the “Run the troubleshooter” button to run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter and then follow the next on-screen options. Note that you might have to boot your PC into Safe Mode.
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How to Get Rid of GifsGalore

The GifsGalore Toolbar from Mindspark Interactive Network, Inc. is proposed to active Web users who like to embed GIFs into their emails and share entertaining GIFs with friends via social media services. The GifsGalore software can be added to your Internet client for free but you need to be using Google Chrome, Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox for the GifsGalore Toolbar to be activated.

When installed it hijacks your New tab page and default search engine changing them to search.myway.com. This extension also monitors user browsing activity recording information such as: visited websites, clicked links, viewed products, etc. This information is later used to better target ads. While browsing the internet with this extension enabled you will see additional pop-up ads, as well as sponsored links and injected ads throughout your browsing session, especially in search results.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijacking is actually a form of unwanted software program, often a browser add-on or extension, which causes modifications in web browser’s settings. There are various reasons why you may experience an internet browser hijack; however commercial, advertising, and marketing are definitely the main reasons for their creation. The idea would be to force users to visit specific sites that are aiming to improve their site visitor traffic and generate higher ad earnings. It could seem naive, but most of these sites are not legitimate and could present a serious risk to your online safety. Browser hijackers can even let other vicious programs without your knowledge further damage the computer.

Find out how to identify a browser hijack

When your web browser is hijacked, the following can happen: the browser’s homepage is modified; bookmark and the new tab are also changed; the default search engine has been changed and your browser security settings have been lowered without your knowledge; you see unwanted new toolbars added; unstoppable flurries of popup ads appear on your computer screen; your web browser gets sluggish, buggy, crashes very often; you are prohibited access to particular web pages, including the site of an anti-malware software developer like SafeBytes.

How browser hijacker finds its way onto your computer system

Browser hijackers might use drive-by downloads or file-sharing networks or perhaps an email attachment to reach a targeted computer. They may also come from any BHO, browser extension, toolbar, add-on, or plug-in with malicious purpose. Other times you might have unintentionally accepted a browser hijacker as part of an application package (usually freeware or shareware). Examples of well-known browser hijackers are Fireball, CoolWebSearch. save, Ask Toolbar, RocketTab, and Babylon Toolbar.

Removal

Some browser hijacking could be quite easily reversed by discovering and removing the corresponding malware software from your control panel. Yet, certain hijackers are far harder to find or eliminate since they might get themselves associated with some crucial computer files that enable them to operate as a necessary operating system process. Additionally, manual removals demand deep system knowledge and therefore can be a very difficult job for novices. Installing and running an anti-malware program on the affected computer could automatically erase browser hijackers and other malicious applications. Safebytes Anti-Malware has a sophisticated anti-malware engine to help you prevent browser hijacking in the first place, and mop up any pre-existing problems. And use a PC optimizer, like Total System Care, to get rid of all related files in the registry and repair browser issues.

What you can do if Malware Stops You From Downloading Or Installing Anything?

All malware is bad, but certain types of malware do a lot more damage to your computer than others. Some malware is created to restrict or prevent things that you want to do on your PC. It may well not let you download anything from the internet or stop you from accessing some or all websites, particularly the antivirus websites. If you’re reading this article, you may have infected by a virus that stops you from installing security software such as Safebytes Antimalware on your PC. There are some actions you can take to circumvent this problem.

Remove malware in Safe Mode

The Windows OS includes a special mode known as “Safe Mode” in which just the bare minimum required programs and services are loaded. If the malware is obstructing internet access and affecting the computer, launching it in Safe Mode allows you to download anti-virus and run a scan whilst limiting possible damage. To enter into Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking, press the F8 key while the computer is starting up or run MSConfig and find the “Safe Boot” options in the “Boot” tab. After you restart into Safe Mode with Networking, you can download, install, as well as update the anti-malware program from there. At this point, you could run the antivirus scan to remove computer viruses and malware without any interference from another application.

Download the security software using an alternate web browser

Web-based viruses can be environment-specific, aiming for a particular browser or attacking specific versions of the browser. If you are not able to download the anti-malware software program using Internet Explorer, it means the virus could be targeting IE’s vulnerabilities. Here, you should switch over to a different browser like Firefox or Chrome to download the Safebytes Anti-malware program.

Install and run antivirus from your USB drive

Another solution is to create a portable anti-malware program onto your USB stick. Adopt these measures to run the antivirus on the affected computer system. 1) Make use of another virus-free computer to download Safebytes Anti-Malware. 2) Plug the Thumb drive into the uninfected computer. 3) Double click on the executable file to run the installation wizard. 4) Select flash drive as the place when the wizard asks you where you wish to install the software. Do as instructed on the screen to finish up the installation process. 5) Now, transfer the USB drive to the infected computer system. 6) Double click the Safebytes Anti-malware icon on the thumb drive to run the software. 7) Click on “Scan Now” to run a complete scan on the affected computer for malware.

How SafeBytes Anti-Malware Keep your Computer Virus Free

If you’re planning to purchase anti-malware for your desktop, there are plenty of brands and utilities for you to consider. A few of them are good but there are lots of scamware applications that pretend as legit anti-malware programs waiting around to wreak havoc on your computer. You need to go with a tool that has obtained a strong reputation and detects not only viruses but other kinds of malware as well. Amongst few good applications, SafeBytes Anti-Malware is the strongly recommended software program for the security-conscious individual. SafeBytes anti-malware is a trusted tool that not only protects your PC completely but is also extremely user-friendly for people of all ability levels. With its cutting-edge technology, this application can help you remove multiples types of malware which include viruses, trojans, PUPs, worms, ransomware, adware, and browser hijackers.

SafeBytes anti-malware provides a myriad of enhanced features that sets it aside from all others. Below are a few of the good ones:

Robust, Anti-malware Protection: Built upon a greatly acclaimed anti-virus engine, this malware removal tool can identify and remove several stubborn malware threats like browser hijackers, PUPs, and ransomware that other common antivirus software will miss. Live Protection: SafeBytes gives you round-the-clock protection for your personal computer restricting malware intrusions instantly. They’re extremely effective in screening and removing numerous threats because they are regularly improved with new updates and alerts. Web Filtering: SafeBytes inspects the links present on a web page for possible threats and alerts you whether the website is safe to browse or not, through its unique safety ranking system. Fast Scan: SafeBytes’s virus scan engine is one of the quickest and most efficient in the industry. It's targeted scanning greatly increases the catch rate for viruses which is embedded in various computer files. Very Low CPU and RAM Usage: SafeBytes is a lightweight and easy-of-use anti-virus and anti-malware solution. Since it uses low computer resources, this application leaves the computer power exactly where it belongs to: with you. 24/7 Premium Support: You will get 24/7 technical support to quickly resolve any issue with your security tool. To sum it up all, SafeBytes Anti-Malware offers superb protection combined with very low system resource usage with both great malware detection and prevention. You now may realize that this particular software does more than just scan and eliminate threats from your computer. You’ll get the best all-around protection for the money you spend on SafeBytes AntiMalware subscription, there isn’t any doubt about it.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

To remove GifsGalore manually, go to the Add or Remove programs list in the Windows Control Panel and select the program you want to get rid of. For internet browser extensions, go to your web browser’s Addon/Extension manager and choose the add-on you would like to remove or disable. You’ll probably also want to reset your web browser. If you choose to manually delete the system files and registry entries, use the following list to make sure you know precisely what files to remove before undertaking any actions. However, editing the registry is usually a difficult task that only experienced users and professionals should try to fix it. Moreover, some malware is capable of replicating or preventing deletion. Carrying out this malware-removal process in Safe Mode is recommended.
Files: %LOCALAPPDATA%\GifsGaloreTooltab %UserProfile%\Local Settings\Application Data\GifsGaloreTooltab %UserProfile%\Local Settings\Application Data\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Sync Extension Settings\fnjgjdfhhakkbojkgmiihabbbjhgbchh %UserProfile%\Local Settings\Application Data\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Extensions\fnjgjdfhhakkbojkgmiihabbbjhgbchh %LOCALAPPDATA%\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Sync Extension Settings\fnjgjdfhhakkbojkgmiihabbbjhgbchh Registry: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\[APPLICATION]\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall..Uninstaller GifsGaloreTooltab Uninstall Internet Explorer HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\LowRegistry\DOMStorage\gifsgalore.dl.tb.ask.com HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\LowRegistry\DOMStorage\gifsgalore.dl.myway.com HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\GifsGalore
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Blizzard caught destroying evidence
Blizzard employeesCalifornia's Department of Fair Employment & Housing has widened its anti-discrimination lawsuit against Activision Blizzard and claims the publisher has been shredding vital documents relevant to the ongoing investigation. A recent report from Kotaku described the department as offering poorly paid, highly insecure positions, with a culture of hostility towards LGBTQ+ testers. The DFEH's rewording of "employees" to "workers" now hopes to take these contractors' experiences into account. "As a contract employee, I feel there's a lot of pressure to excel, impress, and move through the ranks as fast as you can before your contract ends and you're forced to go 3 months without income or find another job," Axios reports one worker saying. "I take pride in what I do, but it feels like it's never enough." Activision's contentious hiring of union-busting third-party law firm WilmerHale "directly interferes" with its own investigation, it says. By going to WilmerHale, Activision appears to be claiming that all work related to the investigation is privileged and can't be shared with DFEH. The suit also claims that Activision HR shredded documents related to "investigations and complaints", against its legal obligation to retain them during the investigation. The relevant parts of the updated lawsuit were shared by Axios reporters Stephen Totilo and Megan Farokhmanesh, the former also noting that the DFEH "fixed their misspelling of Bill Cosby's name". "DFEH is also informed and aware that documents and records have not been maintained as required by law or by the DFEH's Document Retention Notice," the complaint reads, "including but not limited to documents related to investigations and complaints were shredded by human resource personnel and emails are deleted thirty days after an employees separation."

Speculation and answer from Activision Blizzard

Blizzard employee Jessica Gonzalez suspects that the costs of fines associated with destroying these documents may have been an easier blow for Blizzard to take than any penalties drawn from their existence in helping the lawsuit go through. In an email to Kotaku, Activision denied the shredding allegations and issued a statement outlining steps it had taken to improve company culture—including the ousting of high-level executives like Blizzard president J. Allen Brack. The full statement reads: "Throughout our engagement with the DFEH, we have complied with every proper request in support of its review even as we had been implementing reforms to ensure our workplaces are welcoming and safe for every employee. Those changes continue today, and include:
  •     Several high-level personnel changes
  •     Revamped hiring and recruiting practices requiring diverse interview panels
  •     Greater transparency on pay equity
  •     Expanded and improved training and investigative capabilities for human resource and compliance staff
  •     Created investigation teams outside of business units to support greater independence
  •     Restructured divisions to support greater accountability
  •     Enhanced review processes to include evaluation of managers by employees
  •     Clear boundaries on workplace behavior with a zero-tolerance approach to harassment and other actions that diminish or marginalize.
"We strive to be a company that recognizes and celebrates the diverse talents and perspectives that lead to the creation of great, globally appealing entertainment. We have provided the DFEH with clear evidence that we do not have gender pay or promotion disparities. Our senior leadership is increasingly diverse, with a growing number of women in key leadership roles across the company. "We share DFEH’s goal of a safe, inclusive workplace that rewards employees equitably and is committed to setting an example that others can follow."

California and RIOT

Beyond Activision Blizzard, California's DFEH has also probed into League of Legends creator Riot Games, accusing the studio of dragging its heels over sexual harassment allegations dating back to 2019. Riot denied the allegations, telling us that it "will never retaliate against anyone for talking to any government agency".
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Fix Shell Infrastructure Host stopped working
The Windows 10 operating system supports the logging in of multiple users at the same time. Aside from that, it also allows administrators to create a Guest Account that has limited rights. However, there are some instances when you could encounter an error when you use the Guest Account. The error may state:
“Shell Infrastructure Host has stopped working. A problem caused the program to stop working correctly. Please close the program”.
This error indicates that the Shell Infrastructure Host or SiHost.exe process that is used for handling graphical elements, has crashed. And to fix this error, there are several options you can check out. You can try to reinstall the Microsoft Redistributable Packages or run a System File Checker scan. In addition, you can also use a new Guest Account or troubleshoot the problem in a Clean Boot State.

Option 1 – Try to install or repair Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable 2013

A corrupted Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package or the absence of it can trigger the “Shell Infrastructure Host has stopped working” error – so if you do not have this package yet, you have to install it but if you already have it, follow the steps below to repair it.
  • Open Control Panel and proceed to Program and Features.
  • Under Programs and Features, look for Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package among the list.
  • Then right-click on it and click the Change button.
  • Next, you should see the Repair option – click on it to repair the installation of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package.
  • The process may take a couple of minutes before it finishes so once it does, you have to restart your PC.
After doing all these steps and you still encounter the problem, you might have to uninstall this package and download it directly from Microsoft’s website. However, if you are using Windows 10, you might not be able to do so since it only supports Windows versions up to Windows 8.1 so just proceed to the next option below.

Option 2 – Try to run a System File Checker scan

  • In the Windows Start Search, type “command prompt” and right-click on Command Prompt from the search results, and then select the “Run as administrator” option.
  • After opening Command Prompt with admin privileges, type the “sfc /scannow” and tap Enter to execute it.
  • Once the scan is finished, restart your computer and see if the Windows Script Host error.

Option 3 – Try using a new Guest Account

You might want to use a new Guest Account as it could help get rid of the error. All you have to do is have your admin delete the old Guest Account and create a new one and see if it helps in fixing the error.

Option 4 – Try troubleshooting the problem in a Clean Boot State

Setting your computer in a Clean Boot State can help you diagnose and later troubleshoot the problems in your computer. During this state, the system will start with a minimal number of drivers and startup programs that help in isolating the problem with the interfering software. To put your computer in a Clean Boot State, follow the given steps below.
  • Log onto your computer as an administrator.
  • Type in MSConfig in the Start Search to open the System Configuration utility.
  • From there, go to the General tab and click “Selective startup”.
  • Clear the “Load Startup items” check box and make sure that the “Load System Services” and “Use Original boot configuration” options are checked.
  • Next, click the Services tab and select the “Hide All Microsoft Services” check box.
  • Click Disable all.
  • Click on Apply/OK and restart your PC. (This will put your PC into a Clean Boot State. And configure Windows to use the usual startup, just simply undo the changes.)
  • From there, start to isolate the problem by checking which one of the programs you installed recently is the root cause of the problem.
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Fix Windows Error Code 0x80070017
If you suddenly encountered a Windows Error Code 0x80070017 during an Update, Installation or System Restore then it’s probably due to some missing or corrupted system files. This kind of error code can occur during an update, installation, or system restore and the only way out of it is to download the file once again and re-run the installation from the top. Before you start to troubleshoot the problem, you need to create a System Restore Point first. After you create a System Restore point, you can follow the troubleshooting options laid out below to fix the Windows Error Code 0x80070017. You just have to follow the troubleshooting option that applies to your situation and whether you got the error during an update, installation, or during System Restore. Whether you got the error 0x80070017 while updating Windows 10 or installing it or during a system restore, the first thing you must do is run the System File Checker. As pointed out early on, the Windows Error Code 0x80070017 might be caused by corrupted or missing system files so the first thing you can try is to run the System File Checker scan.
  • Tap Win + R to launch Run.
  • Type in cmd in the field and tap Enter.
  • After opening Command Prompt, type in sfc /scannow and hit Enter.
The command will start a system scan which will take a few whiles before it finishes. Once it’s done, you could get the following results:
  1. Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.
  2. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them.
  3. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.
If you have encountered Windows Error Code 0x80070017 during an Update, then here are some options you need to try:

Option 1 – Delete the files/contents in the SoftwareDistribution Folder

The Software Distribution folder in the Windows operating system is a folder that can be found in the Windows directory and is used to store files temporarily which might be required to install the Windows Update on your PC. Thus, it is required by the Windows Update and maintained by WUAgent. A lot of users tried deleting the files in this folder to fix the problem and so far it has worked. Like them, you can try clearing the Windows Update cache by simply deleting the contents of the folder named “SoftwareDistribution” since Windows apparently can’t clear and re-download the update contents once they are corrupted. Thus, deleting the contents of this folder will make Windows download the contents again which will fix the problem. To do that, follow the steps below.
  • Open the WinX Menu.
  • From there, open Command Prompt as admin.
  • Then type in the following command – don’t forget to hit Enter right after typing each one of them.
net stop wuauserv net stop bits
  • After entering these commands, it will stop the Windows Update Service and the Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
  • Next, go to the C:/Windows/SoftwareDistribution folder and get rid of all the folders and files thereby tapping the Ctrl + A keys to select them all and then click on Delete. Note that if the files are in use, you won’t be able to delete them.
  • Once all the contents in the Software Distribution folder are deleted, restart your PC and then go back to Command Prompt and input the following commands again.
net start wuauserv net start bits
Since the folder has already been flushed, it will be populated afresh the instant your restart your computer and open Windows Update.

Option 2 – Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Running the built-in Windows Update troubleshooter could also help you resolve the Windows Update Error Code 0x80070017. To run it, go to Settings and then select Troubleshoot from the options. From there, click on Windows Update and then click the “Run the troubleshooter” button. After that, follow the next on-screen instructions and you should be good to go. On the other hand, if you got the error code 0x80070017 during a Windows 10 installation, then it’s because of bad media or corruption in ISO. Here are some troubleshooting steps for this kind of situation:

Option a – Try to create Windows 10 ISO media again

In this option, you will have to create a Windows 10 bootable media and use it to install the latest Windows 10 version. Most users reported that this option works and the reason why it does have something to do with the Windows Update client since the Windows Updates downloaded from the regular Windows Update client seem to create issues such as the error 0x80070017. However, issues like this one don’t occur when the very same Windows Updates are downloaded and installed via an ISO file. Take note that when using a Windows ISO file, you will be asked to choose what you want to do with the previous settings and apps. A lot of users opted for the “Not to keep the old Windows settings” option which has resolved the issue. So if you want to keep the previous settings then you must try to update Windows first while keeping the old settings. However, if it doesn’t work, you have to try installing the latest version of Windows without keeping the previous settings.
  • Click this link and then click the Download Tool Now button.
  • Next, click the “Use the tool to create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file)…” option and follow the next given instructions on the screen.
  • Now select the ISO file option in step 5.
  • After that, you should now have an ISO file.
  • Next, go to the location where you’ve downloaded the ISO file.
  • Then right-click on the Windows 10 ISO file and select the Open with the option and then select File Explorer.
  • Now click on “setup.exe” and follow the next instructions that appear on the screen. When asked, you have to select either Nothing (clean install) or Keep personal files only option. Take note that you must not select the “Keep personal files, apps, and Windows settings since it doesn’t really work.

Option b – Run Microsoft’s online troubleshooter

Running Microsoft’s online troubleshooter might also help you fix the Windows update error 0x80070017. This online troubleshooter is known to help in fixing Windows Update errors, it scans your computer for issues that might be causing the problem and then fixes them automatically. If you got the error during System Restore then this means that the files that are being copied from the disk are not making it to the hard drive. To resolve it, here’s what you can do:

Option 1 – Run System Restore in Safe Mode

You might want to run System Restore in Safe Mode and see if it works. Just reboot your PC into Safe Mode and then run System Restore.

Option 2 – Reset Repository

  • Boot your PC into Safe Mode.
  • Then open Command Prompt as admin.
  • Next, type the “net stop winmgmt” command and hit Enter to stop the Windows Management Instrumentation Service.
  • After that, go to C:/Windows/System32/wbem. From there, rename the repository folder to “repository-old”.
  • Restart your computer.
  • After your computer has restarted, open Command Prompt as admin again and then type the “net stop winmgmt” command and hit Enter.
  • Next, type the “winmgmt /resetRepository” and hit Enter to reset Repository.
  • Restart PC and check if System Restore now works.

Option 3 – Try resetting Windows 10

To fix the error 0x80070017, you can try resetting Windows 10. Doing so won’t get rid of any file in your system – instead of erasing all your media files and documents, it only resets all the system settings and files. Simply go to Settings > Recovery. From there click the Get started button under the Reset This PC section.
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File Record Segment is Unreadable in Windows 10
If you suddenly encounter an error message saying, “ File Record Segment is Unreadable ” on a blue screen while booting your PC, it means that your hard drive is in an error state. This particular blue screen of death error might have a lot of bad sectors or might have reached its end. The workarounds you can try to resolve the issue is by locating the bad sectors or checking your hard drive for any discrepancies in the mapping and fix them. Follow the detailed instructions laid out below for these workarounds.

Option 1 – Try to check for any bad sectors and wrong configurations in your hard drive

The first thing you have to check is the boot files on your PC. As you know, your PC boots from these files and if there is anything wrong with any one of them or if one of them ends up getting corrupted, you will most likely see the blue screen of death error or a prompt with an error message saying, “File record segment is unreadable”. According to some users who reported this issue, new hard drives aren’t exempted from this error. That’s why it is recommended that you carry out this solution no matter what kind of scenario you are in. You will have to launch the Command Prompt in recovery mode and see if you can fix the problem by executing the check disk commands.
  • Upon booting, restart your PC and tap F11 to go to the recovery environment then select Troubleshoot.
  • Next, click Advanced from the given options and select Command Prompt.
  • After opening Command Prompt, execute the commands listed below, and don’t forget to hit Enter right after you type in each one of them and if you have installed Windows to some different directory, you must replace “C” with the name of the drive you’ve installed Windows with.
  • chkdsk C: /r /x
  • chkdsk C: /f
Note: The Chkdsk function might take a while before it finishes its operations so you need to be patient and wait until the entire process is completed. And depending on the situation, it might even take a day at most so patience is really the key here.

Option 2 – Try connecting the hard drive to a different computer

If option 1 didn’t work for you and you’re still seeing the error, you can try connecting the hard drive to a different computer and then copy the data first. Make it a priority to salvage the data just in case the hard drive won’t make it in the future. After replicating your hard drive, you can then try running the chkdsk commands that are listed in option 1 above in the new computer you’re connecting your hard drive to and make sure that you key in the correct drive letter that’s assigned to the hard drive you’re using. After executing the chkdsk commands, plug your hard drive back into the previous computer and then check if you can now boot it without any issues.

Option 4 – Replace the faulty hard drive

If none of the options provided above really worked out then maybe it’s time to consider getting a replacement for your hard drive. In about 50% of the cases about this error, some unfortunate users were left with no choice but to replace the hard drive since the problem is with the hard drive itself. Hard drives have a complex running mechanism which includes a head and the disk that rotates accordingly so you can check if the cables connected to the hard drive are connected properly and if it is in a correct position or not. In addition, you also have to make sure that the SATA adapters where the hard drive is connected are working properly. If the drive is showing problems in the I/O operation, there is little chance for you to use it as a normal hard drive. If the hard drive is in warranty, get it checked and replace it. If not, you might consider taking it to the service center for the specialists to take a look into it.
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Fix HAL INITIALIZATION FAILED Error 0x0000005C
When your computer boots up or when it just woke up from sleep but it suddenly encounters a Blue Screen of Death error, saying, “HAL INITIALIZATION FAILED error with STOP CODE 0x0000005C”, then read on as this post will give you some fixes that might help in resolving the problem. You will see the following error message on your computer’s screen when this error pops up:
“Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart. We’re just collecting some error info, and then we’ll restart for you. If you’d like to know more, you can search online later for this error: HAL_INITIALIZATION_FAILED HAL INITIALIZATION FAILED 0x0000005C”
This kind of Blue Screen error indicates that there is a hardware or device driver problem in your PC. Aside from that, it also signifies that the initialization of the Hardware Abstraction Layer or HAL has failed. This happens only during the relatively short period that the Windows operating system is being initialized, specifically during phase 4 of Windows startup. What’s worse about this kind of Stop error is that it does not just go away after a computer reboot. You may have to boot your computer into Safe mode with Networking using the Advanced startup options which you can access by tapping the F2 or F8 key. Once you’ve accessed the Advanced startup options, follow the fixes prepared below.

Option 1 – Run CHKDSK command to repair hard disk errors

Running the Chkdsk utility could help you resolve the HAL INITIALIZATION FAILED error with STOP CODE 0x0000005C. If your hard drive has issues with integrity, the update will really fail as the system will think that it’s not healthy and that’s where the Chkdsk utility comes in. The Chkdsk utility repairs hard drive errors that might be causing the problem.
  • After you access the Advanced Startup options, select Command Prompt by using the arrow keys on your keyboard.
  • After opening Command Prompt, execute the following command and hit Enter:
chkdsk /f /r
  • The command you entered will scan the hard disk for any errors and will automatically fix it if it finds some issues. Wait for the process to be completed and then restart your computer.

Option 2 – Run the DISM tool

If the first option didn’t work, then running the Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management tool can help you resolve the HAL INITIALIZATION FAILED error as it will repair the Windows System Image as well as the Windows Component Store in Windows 10.
  • After you access the Advanced Startup options, select Command Prompt by using the arrow keys on your keyboard.
  • Next, type in this command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  • Do not close the window if the process takes a while as it will probably take a few minutes to finish.

Option 3 – Update the Device drivers

  • Tap the Win + R keys to launch Run.
  • Type in msc into the box and tap Enter or click OK to open the Device Manager.
  • After that, a list of device drivers will be displayed. Look for the device driver you and then select either “Update driver” or “Uninstall device”. And if you find any “Unknown device”, you need to update it as well.
  • Select the “Search automatically for updated driver software” option and then follow the instructions to complete the process.
  • If you have chosen to uninstall the driver, follow the screen options to complete the process and then restart your PC.
  • Connect the device and Scan for hardware changes – you can see this option under Device Manager > Action.

Option 4 – Try removing any external hardware

You might also want to remove any connected devices and external hardware in your computer as it might help in fixing the BSOD error.

Option 5 – Disable Fast Start-up

If you want your computer to boot faster, then you might have enabled Fast Start-up. This feature is ideal for computers that are using a hard disk drive. However, turning on this feature also means that when the computer boots, it might lag some drivers that are loaded when it initially boots up. Thus, it might be the potential cause of the UNEXPECTED STORE EXCEPTION BSOD error. Thus, you need to disable Fast Start-up. To do that, follow these steps:
  • Boot your PC into Safe Mode.
  • Then tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Next, type in “control” to open Control Panel.
  • After that, select Hardware and Sound and click on Power Options.
  • Select “Choose what the power buttons do” from the left side menu pane and click on Change settings that are currently unavailable.
  • Afterward, uncheck the “Turn on fast startup (Recommended)” entry and click on Save Changes.
  • Now restart your PC for the changes to take effect and then check if the problem’s fixed afterward.

Option 6 – Disable your antivirus program

There are times when the antivirus program installed in your computer blocks file access and even disk access. Thus, disabling the antivirus program or any security software installed in your computer is always a good idea you can try when the Windows Update process does not go smoothly. So before you try updating your computer again, make sure to disable the antivirus or security program and once the Windows Update is done, don’t forget to enable the antivirus program back again.

Option 7 – Perform a Clean Boot

There are some instances that some conflicting programs installed in your computer might be the one that’s causing the HAL INITIALIZATION FAILED error. To identify which program is causing the problem, you need to put your computer in a Clean Boot State. To do so, follow the steps below.
  • Log onto your PC as an administrator.
  • Type in MSConfig in the Start Search to open the System Configuration utility.
  • From there, go to the General tab and click “Selective startup”.
  • Clear the “Load Startup items” check box and make sure that the “Load System Services” and “Use Original boot configuration” options are checked.
  • Next, click the Services tab and select the “Hide All Microsoft Services” check box.
  • Click Disable all.
  • Click on Apply/OK and restart your PC. (This will put your PC into a Clean Boot State. And configure Windows to use the usual startup, just simply undo the changes.)
  • From there, start to isolate the problem by checking which one of the programs you installed recently is the root cause of the problem.
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Should you use the Faraday bag

Faraday bag is a new take on security and privacy for people using a lot of electronic devices and credit cards. So what is exactly a Faraday bag?

faraday bag

Faraday bag explained

Faraday bag is designed in the same manner as the Faraday cage which was invented by Michael Faraday, who was an English scientist who contributed to the study of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. His main discoveries include the principles underlying electromagnetic induction, diamagnetism, and electrolysis.

The idea of the Faraday cage is that anything inside a cage that is made of specific grid size is completely isolated from outside current and magnetic fields since the cage itself will pick up everything upon itself. This means that for example, a human could be inside a cage that is struck by lightning and be perfectly safe and fine.

This idea led to the Faraday bag design, which takes this concept and places a wiring pattern inside clothing in order to isolate all magnetic fields from the outside so your devices and cards are completely cut off from any kind of influence and electromagnetic waves. If the pattern and quality of material for the bag are good, you have a fully safe placeholder for your stuff.

Advantages of Faraday bag

The main advantages, of course, are the privacy and safety of mobile phones and credit cards from outside influences and this is why this bag has been designed in the first place. If the bag is designed properly your phone would not be able to be hacked nor accessed from any outside source, GPS tracking will also be disabled and your phone location will not be visible. Credit cards will also be completely safe from any malicious attack via wi-fi signals.

Disadvantages of bag

Well, the disadvantage of using this bag is a very simple one, since your phone is isolated from outside influence that will also mean that you will not be able to take messages or calls on it while it is in the bag. Notifications from the internet would also be disabled so it is security vs usability deal.

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APC_INDEX_MISMATCH  - What is it and how to fix it?
The error 0x0000001 also known as APC_INDEX_MISMATCH is one of the fatal errors that users encounter upon starting their computers. This error appears when there is a sequence mismatch in the driver or system file when it is disabling or re-enabling Asynchronous procedure calls. The mismatch happens maybe because of a virus or malware attack, not shutting down your computer properly and incomplete installation of the system files. There are many ways to fix this error. The easiest way is to download a repair utility program. The use of these programs perfectly fits those that are not so technical. All you have to do is download the program and install it on your computer. As soon as it is installed, the program will now scan and diagnose your computer for any errors. After it identifies the errors, it will then repair your PC through either manual or automatic tools. To those who are techie and enjoy the manual resolution, you may take advantage of Microsoft’s analyze debug extension which tells you the cause of the error. After determining the cause then you can now start fixing the error. Check if Hardware is functioning properly. If the cause is due to a hardware malfunction, you will have to make sure that all the pieces you are using are working. All the wires should be attached to their respective ports. Not only that, but you also must make sure that before installing the hardware, it is compatible with the Windows version that is installed into your computer. Use Compatible software. If the problem was caused by software or a driver, you can uninstall and reinstall it. Always make it a rule that whenever you install a program or new software to your computer, make sure it is compatible with your operating system and never skip a step during the installation process. You also have to see to it that the program you are installing does not contain any viruses, malware, or spyware that can be harmful to your computer. Update your Drivers Regularly. In most cases though, the cause of the APC_INDEX_MISMATCH error are outdated device drivers. To resolve this, you will have to go to your Control Panel then look for Device Manager. As soon as you are in the Device Manager window, you can now see the different devices running on your computer. You right-click on each device and check the Properties.  In the Properties window, click on the Driver Tab and look for the date when it was last updated. You can then go to the manufacturer’s website and compare the dates. For a new Windows operating system, you no longer have to go to the manufacturer's website though. All you have to do is click on Update Driver and it will automatically search for updates online. Use a Genuine Operating System. There are also cases where the 0x0000001 error won’t allow you to access your computer. In this case, we have to suspect that the problem could be in your Operating system. To resolve this, you can reinstall your Operating System or update your current operating system. Only use a genuine licensed Windows Operating System because this will not only protect you from Malware and Viruses but it allows you to get all the recent update available from Microsoft. Update your Windows 10 regularly by going to Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates. You may also turn on the Automatic Update by going to the Advanced options is found on the Windows Update Page. You can always get help online but it really helps to know the basics and determining the root cause of the error.
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How to remove Boost My PC From Your System

Boost My PC is a program developed by 1.0.2.6. During setup, a scheduled task is added to Windows Task Scheduler in order to launch the program at various scheduled times (the schedule varies depending on the version). When installed, it will add a context menu handler to the Windows shell in order to provide quick access to the program.

Boost My PC presents itself as a legit PC speed-up utility, it scans your computer for problems and displays errors that need to be fixed. Upon accepting to fix these alleged errors, you are asked for a Payment in order to activate this product for a few months.

Many anti-virus scanners have marked this application as a Potentially Unwanted Program, and while Boost My PC is not so harmful on its own, it comes bundled with other Potentially Unwanted Programs that might harm your computer.

About Potentially Unwanted Applications

If you’ve ever downloaded and installed a software package via the internet (shareware, freeware, etc,), odds are high you’ve unwittingly installed unwanted programs on your computer. Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUP), also referred to as Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUA), are programs that you never wanted in the first place and sometimes come bundled with freeware software. Once installed, most of these applications can be hard to remove and become more of a pain rather than a benefit. It’s clear by the name – unwanted applications – but did not really constitute “malware” in the traditional sense. Much like malware, PUPs create problems when downloaded and installed on your machine, but what makes a PUP different is that you grant consent to download it – though the truth is vastly different – the software installation bundle actually tricks you into agreeing to the installation. Regardless of whether it is considered malware or otherwise, PUPs are almost always detrimental to the user as they could bring on adware, spyware, keystroke logging, along other dangerous “crapware” features on your computer.

Exactly how do unwanted programs look like?

Potentially Unwanted Programs appear in different forms and varieties, however, most times, these are typically adware programs that show annoying pop-up adverts and advertisements on web pages you drop by. PUPs that come as browser add-ons and toolbars are widely identifiable. These toolbars change your homepage and your search engine in the installed web browser, track your web activities, influence your search results with redirects and sponsored links, and eventually slow down your web browser and diminish your browsing experience. PUPs lie inside the gray part of the software spectrum. They may carry keyloggers, dialers, along with other software built right into them that might monitor you or send out your sensitive information to 3rd parties. Even if the PUPs aren’t inherently malicious, these programs still do practically nothing good on your personal computer – they will take valuable resources, slow your PC, weaken your device’s security, making your PC more susceptible to malware.

Tips on protecting yourself from PUPs

• Read the EULA carefully. Look for clauses that say that you ought to accept advertising and pop-ups or bundled programs from the company. • Choose the “custom” install whenever downloading a program. In particular, look closely at those tiny boxes that have been checked as default, where you might ‘agree’ to receive ads or install software bundlers. • Use an ad blocker/pop-up blocker; Deploy anti-malware products such as Safebytes Anti-malware. These types of applications will establish a wall between the computer and cybercriminals. • Avoid installing freeware software you will not make use of. Avoid installing browser extensions and applications you aren’t knowledgeable about. • Only download software from the original providers’ sites. Stay away from download portals because they use their own download manager to pack additional programs together with the initial download.

What you can do if Malware Prevents You From Downloading Anything?

Malware could cause all sorts of damage after they invade your system, from stealing your private details to deleting files on your computer system. Certain malware types alter web browser settings by including a proxy server or change the computer’s DNS configuration settings. In these cases, you’ll be unable to visit certain or all websites, and therefore unable to download or install the required security software to remove the infection. So what you should do if malicious software prevents you from downloading or installing Anti-Malware? Even though this kind of problem can be difficult to get around, there are a few steps you can take.

Download the application in Safe Mode with Networking

If any virus is set to run immediately when Windows starts, stepping into safe mode could block this attempt. Just the minimum required applications and services are loaded whenever you start your PC in Safe Mode. To start your Windows XP, Vista, or 7 computers in Safe Mode with Networking, follow the instructions below. 1) Press the F8 key continuously as soon as your system boots, but before the large Windows logo shows up. This should bring up the Advanced Boot Options menu. 2) Select Safe Mode with Networking with arrow keys and hit ENTER. 3) Once you get into this mode, you should have online access once again. Now, use your internet browser normally and navigate to https://safebytes.com/products/anti-malware/ to download and install Safebytes Anti-Malware. 4) Immediately after installation, run a full scan and let the software remove the threats it discovers.

Switch over to a different web browser

Some malware only targets specific web browsers. If this sounds like your situation, employ another web browser as it may circumvent the computer virus. If you’re not able to download the security software using Internet Explorer, this means the virus may be targeting IE’s vulnerabilities. Here, you must switch to another internet browser like Chrome or Firefox to download the Safebytes program.

Install and run anti-virus from a USB drive

Another option is to store and operate an anti-malware program completely from a Flash drive. Try these simple steps to clear up your infected computer by using portable anti-malware. 1) Download the anti-malware on a virus-free computer. 2) Plug the Flash drive into the clean computer. 3) Run the setup program by double-clicking the executable file of the downloaded software, with a .exe file extension. 4) Select the drive letter of the flash drive as the place when the wizard asks you where you want to install the anti-malware. Do as instructed on the computer screen to finish off the installation process. 5) Transfer the pen drive from the uninfected computer to the infected computer. 6) Double-click the EXE file to open the Safebytes tool right from the thumb drive. 7) Click on “Scan Now” to run a scan on the affected computer for viruses.

Ensure the Safety of Your PC by Installing SafeBytes Anti-Malware

If you’re looking to buy anti-malware for your computer, there are numerous brands and packages for you to consider. A few are very good ones, some are ok types, and some are merely fake anti-malware programs that could damage your personal computer themselves! You have to be very careful not to pick the wrong product, especially if you purchase a paid application. On the list of strongly recommended software programs is SafeBytes Anti-Malware. SafeBytes carries a very good history of top-quality service, and clients appear to be happy with it. SafeBytes anti-malware is a trustworthy tool that not only secures your system completely but is also very easy to use for people of all ability levels. Through its cutting-edge technology, this software protects your personal computer against infections caused by various kinds of malware and other threats, including spyware, adware, computer viruses, worms, trojan horses, keyloggers, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), and ransomware.

There are plenty of wonderful features you’ll get with this particular security product. These are some of the highlighted features included in the software.

World-class AntiMalware Protection: Built on a highly acclaimed anti-virus engine, this malware removal application has the capacity to detect and get rid of several stubborn malware threats like browser hijackers, PUPs, and ransomware that other common antivirus programs will miss. Live Protection: SafeBytes gives you round-the-clock protection for your PC restricting malware attacks in real-time. It will regularly monitor your pc for hacker activity and also provides users with advanced firewall protection. Safe Web Browsing: SafeBytes provides an instant safety rating about the web pages you’re going to visit, automatically blocking risky sites and making sure that you are certain of your online safety while browsing the world wide web. Low CPU Usage: This program is lightweight and can run silently in the background, and that does not impact your computer efficiency. 24/7 Customer Support: SafeBytes provides 24/7 technical support, automatic maintenance, and updates for the best user experience. To sum it up, SafeBytes has created a meaningful anti-malware solution that is aimed to protect your computer against various malware. Malware problems can become a thing of the past once you put this software program to use. For top protection and the best value for your money, you can’t get better than SafeBytes Anti-Malware.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you don’t wish to use an automated tool and like to eliminate Boost My PC manually, you could possibly do so by going to the Add/Remove Programs menu in the Control Panel and deleting the offending program; in cases of web browser add-ons, you could remove it by going to the browsers Add-on/Extension manager. You will definitely also want to reset your internet browser. If you opt to manually delete the system files and Windows registry entries, make use of the following list to ensure that you know precisely what files to remove before executing any actions. Please remember that this is for skilled users only and may be challenging, with wrong file removal leading to additional PC errors. In addition, certain malware is capable of replicating itself or preventing deletion. It is highly recommended that you carry out the removal procedure in Safe Mode.
Files: %PROGRAMFILES(x86)%\Boost My PC %PROGRAMFILES%\Boost My PC Registry: [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run] [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run] [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run] delete the display Name: BoostMyPC
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