I run the current version of Norton Internet Security and Malwarebytes on Windows 7 Pro 64-bit using IE9. Problem symptoms are:
1. All searches using any search engine return what look like valid results but when the links are clicked I am taken to an assortment of different sites that look like link pages or poor ads.
2. Malwarebytes pops up periodically with a message that it successfully blocked access to potentially malicious website for rundll32.exe.
3. Windows alert state Security Center not on. When I click turn it on, I am told it cannot be turned on.
What I've done:
1. Cleared my IE cache and performed a reset, which diables all add-ons and toolbars
2. Checked Norton and every feature is listed as on.
3. Checked add-ons and add/remove programs - no unfamiliar programs
4. Ran full system scan. Norton reported 9 low level tracking cookies and fixed them
Lastly, I tried to do a System Restore. Windows told me that System Protection was not on for the C drive. I turned it on and found there were no restore points anymore.
I read my email in the reading pane, I do custom installs of all software so I can uncheck unwanted software and I keep my operating system and all software up to date and current. I do not surf the web and avoid risky sites.
I have had a computer since 1982 and this is the first time my computer has been invaded. My big question is how did something like this get past Norton????