PC problems, help guidance? - DPChallenge Forums

07/08/2006 02:24:44 PM · #1

Earlier today I was editing pics and the pc started running slowly (not unusual) so I rebooted and it took an age. Rather than simply loging on as normal I was faced with a password request (I don't have have passords on login).

I managed to repair windows and (as you can see) am back online. Am trialling the full ZA security suite in addition to my normal free ZA, spyware doctor, webroot spysweeper, spyware doctor, registry mechanic and ad-aware SE personal.

Is it possible that 'someone' got into my pc and added a password to my pc?? If so should I do a full reformat and rename the pc? am I being paranoid?

I've lost a couple of drives but am sure I'll get them back, my firefox favourites and ALL email have gone as well - should I be very worried??

Rikki

Canon EOS-20D

07/08/2006 02:26:21 PM · #2

I think if you have a FireWall you should be ok. I doubt someone would hack into your PC.

Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 IF EX DG HSM for Canon

07/08/2006 02:36:20 PM · #3

Originally posted by Rikki:

I think if you have a FireWall you should be ok. I doubt someone would hack into your PC.

txs Rikki, I've just installed the ZA all singing all dancing version and didn't have it when the problem arose. I'm pretty sure windows wouldn't invoke a password all on its own?

coronamv

Canon EOS-350D Rebel XT

07/08/2006 02:58:45 PM · #4

When you set up your PC on XP I am assuming you had to create an admin user and password Its part of the instalation. That is likely to be what popped up.

Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 IF EX DG HSM for Canon

07/08/2006 03:07:23 PM · #5

Originally posted by coronamv:

When you set up your PC on XP I am assuming you had to create an admin user and password Its part of the instalation. That is likely to be what popped up.

nope, I skipped that part and, even if I did create a password I don't see why it was suddenly invoked at startup when I've never been asked for it before?

coronamv

Canon EOS-350D Rebel XT

07/08/2006 03:18:59 PM · #6

Ok how did you skip that part or was it setup when you bought it? I have seen pcs reboot from a critical failure where as the registry was restored and the username login goes default to the Administrator. WHich can be either that or anyname given to them. As far as I know it will not let you skip the setup phaze in xp where it ask you to assign this info. ( I may Be wrong on this but never seen it and config over 200 machines everyday.) There are programs that will let you change this password ERD commander is one that comes to mind

07/08/2006 03:33:07 PM · #7

Thanks Mark, it may be that when I first installed xp home I was asked for a username/password (but can't remember either). Also, after using the restore function I was not asked for them again? Anyway, damage is not too bad, have just lost my internet favourites, email and last months photographhs (I didn't shoot much in June and nothing worth keeping).

Nikon AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED

07/10/2006 05:58:29 PM · #8

Well, got the same problem last night so did a full format tonight (I was not asked to give a password during the new install). I am thinking of uprading my RAM and have 2x512 Kingston 'value' sticks but, and this upset me I only have 2 RAM slots. Can I upgrade this by adding slots? (I think not) or should I get 2x1mb sticks online? (I'm guessing its cheaper than buying in the highstreet).

joebok

Fujifilm X100F

07/10/2006 06:08:39 PM · #9

I think it's pretty unlikely you'll be able to add any slots to your motherboard...

I haven't checked any prices recently, but last time I did, I was pleasantly surprised to get a good deal at my local non-big name computer store.

joebok

Fujifilm X100F

Nikon AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED

07/10/2006 06:16:34 PM · #10

On your other problem, you may want to do a check disk on your sytem - and include the "scan for bad sectors" option - what you describe could be a failing hard drive.

buzzrock

Fujifilm X-M1

Fujifilm XC 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS

07/10/2006 06:19:07 PM · #11

Is this related to your Heat Issue?

Isnt your PC running extremely hot lately?