rundll32.exe error and spyware

[Kizzy]

I'm running Windows XP and when I shut down, I get a rundll32.exe error saying it is non responsive. I had a worm virus a few weeks ago, which I did get rid of, but this is one of the files the worm deletes. I'm wondering if I did a repair of the OS if it would fix the missing dll file? Or is there another way of fixing it?


Also, I ran spyware checker on my computer. I had hundreds and hundreds of files listed as high risk on my computer. Several came from smilie central, of course Kazaa & Groskter and some other programs. I so wish spyware was illegal, but I was disappointed that smilie central contained so many attached spyware files associated as high risk and recommended removal.

 

[Tonio]

Originally posted by IM4Change
Kazaa & Groskter and some other programs. I so wish spyware was illegal, but I was disappointed that smilie central contained so many attached spyware files associated as high risk and recommended removal.

There are many "free" screen savers and other programs that come with spyware. That's the hidden cost of "something for nothing." Hell, even IE comes with something called Alexa which has raised privacy concerns.

I use Spybot and Ad-Aware to get rid of spyware.

 

[ceo_pte]

I had spybot, but it would not get rid of the 'clientman'. I have ad-aware now and it works better, but there is still one registry value that it's missing. Well it finds it, but if fails to get rid of it.

 

[TWL]

Originally posted by IM4Change
I'm running Windows XP and when I shut down, I get a rundll32.exe error saying it is non responsive. I had a worm virus a few weeks ago, which I did get rid of, but this is one of the files the worm deletes. I'm wondering if I did a repair of the OS if it would fix the missing dll file? Or is there another way of fixing it?

You shouldn't have to reinstall. Click Start -- Run, type cmd then:

expand d:\i386\rundll32.ex_ c:\winnt\system32

d:\i386 being the i386 folder on your install CD. Use the appropriate location in your case.
c:\winnt\system32 being the location to place the expanded rundll32.exe. Although, I believe in WinXP, the location may be c:\windows\system32.

[edit]Come to think about it, even though you are getting a rundll32 error doesn't necessary mean rundll32 is bad or missing. The actual DLL rundll32 is trying to run could be bad or missing. If you know which DLL is the culprit, you should be able to take it off the install CD(if it came with WinXP) or you may be able to download it.[/edit]

 

[Kizzy]

Thanks TWL. The information on the worm removal said that it would delete data out of the DLL file and suggested a reinstall of the missing DLL files. It does not affect the operating or function of the computer or any of the programs; it is just annoying to have to click END PROGRAM in order to shut the computer off. I believe the problem is solved.