Adware.StopPopupAdsNow

SUMMARY

Behavior

Adware.StopPopupAdsNow is a browser helper object that blocks some Internet Explorer advertising pop-up windows, and instead, displays pop-up windows from paid sponsors.

In addition, the program will collect information, such as browsing habits.

Symptoms

Displays pop-up advertising windows.

Transmission

The most common installation method for this program is through Web sites.

Protection

• Virus Definitions (LiveUpdate™ Weekly) October 8, 2003
• Virus Definitions (Intelligent Updater) October 6, 2003

TECHNICAL DETAILS

The program will install itself as an Internet Explorer Browser Helper Object.

The program will monitor browsing habits, especially when clicking through advertisements, and will display pop-up advertisements from paid sponsors of the program.

REMOVAL

1. Update the virus definitions.
2. Run a full system scan and delete all the files detected as Adware.StopPopupAdsNow.
3. Delete the values that was added to the registry.
   

For specific details on each of these steps, read the following instructions.

1. Updating the virus definitions
Symantec Security Response fully tests all the virus definitions for quality assurance before they are posted to our servers. There are two ways to obtain the most recent virus definitions:

• Running LiveUpdate, which is the easiest way to obtain virus definitions: These virus definitions are posted to the LiveUpdate servers once each week (usually on Wednesdays), unless there is a major virus outbreak. To determine whether definitions for this threat are available by LiveUpdate, refer to the Virus Definitions (LiveUpdate).
• Downloading the definitions using the Intelligent Updater: The Intelligent Updater virus definitions are posted on U.S. business days (Monday through Friday). You should download the definitions from the Symantec Security Response Web site and manually install them. To determine whether definitions for this threat are available by the Intelligent Updater, refer to the Virus Definitions (Intelligent Updater).
  
  The Intelligent Updater virus definitions are available: Read "How to update virus definition files using the Intelligent Updater" for detailed instructions.

2. Scanning for and deleting the infected files

1. Start Norton AntiVirus and make sure that it is configured to scan all the files. For more information, read the document, "How to configure Norton AntiVirus to scan all files."
2. Run a full system scan.
3. If any files are detected as infected with Adware.StopPopupAdsNow, click Delete.
   

3. Deleting the values from the registry

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WARNING: Symantec strongly recommends that you back up the registry before making any changes to it. Incorrect changes to the registry can result in permanent data loss or corrupted files. Modify the specified keys only. Read the document, "How to make a backup of the Windows registry," for instructions.

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1. Click Start, and then click Run. (The Run dialog box appears.)
2. Type regedit
   
   Then click OK. (The Registry Editor opens.)
   
   
3. Delete the registry keys:
   
   • HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTclsid{00000273-8230-4dd4-be4f-6889d1e74167}
   • HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTclsid{10000273-8230-4dd4-be4f-6889d1e74167}
   • HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT ypelib{10000273-8230-4dd4-be4f-6889d1e74167}
     
     
4. Exit the Registry Editor.