computer gurus - Can't open any .exe files

[BYU 14]

I was surfing MS news and clicked on a video and AVG2011 detected and quarantined malware.

After this happened I can suddenly not open any .exe files, including system restore or internet explorer. I get the prompt asking me to select a program to use to open the file and the only way I can get on the net id to select the browse for options link, which goes to the microsoft site.

Any ideas on a way to restore the .exe extensions? I have never seen this before and am always leery of just downloading recommended programs without asking folks that know.

Thanks

[JonInMiddleGA]

Sounds a lot like one of the fake-windows-security trojan side effects (minus all the stupid pop-ups those usually bring)

Check the boards at Bleeping Computer - Computer Help and Discussion
I'd bet you'll find a perfect match (and detailed solutions) in the threads over there.

[BYU 14]

Originally Posted by JonInMiddleGA

Sounds a lot like one of the fake-windows-security trojan side effects (minus all the stupid pop-ups those usually bring)

Check the boards at Bleeping Computer - Computer Help and Discussion
I'd bet you'll find a perfect match (and detailed solutions) in the threads over there.

Thanks Jon, I'll check it out.

[mckerney]

Nasty Trojan- Can't Run Any .exe Files - Malwarebytes Forum

I don't think the image shows without registering for the forum, though when I've had to rename combofix before I've changed it to Combo-Fix.exe

[RomaGoth]

Originally Posted by JonInMiddleGA

Sounds a lot like one of the fake-windows-security trojan side effects (minus all the stupid pop-ups those usually bring)

Check the boards at Bleeping Computer - Computer Help and Discussion
I'd bet you'll find a perfect match (and detailed solutions) in the threads over there.

I agree. Our old Dell was infected with Thinkpoint (one of my kids probably clicked on a random link while playing games on Disney or something). Very annoying to get rid of.

[BYU 14]

This indeed looks nasty, I will give it a run tonight after work or may just end calling my computer guy.....That's what i get for clicking on a video of the 'wussiest hockey fight ever'

[BYU 14]

OK, I ran a full AVG scan as I was reading through the fixes and somehow it must of removed the issue as I got system restore to fire and restored my computer to last night and now everything is working fine, knock on wood.

Running one more full scan with AVG, then Malwarebytes.

if fixed AVG is a great virus program for free!!

[jeheinz72]

If you're on XP and still can't run any .exe's, go here and then use line 12

Kellys Korner XP Tweaks

Got bit by a similar thing not to long ago