Everything in C:/ is hidden...

Skull · 7 Sep 2009 at 06:25

I'm helping a friend sort out her computer, presumably it's full of spyware and viruses. Shes running Windows XP.

My problem is that I went on her computer, looked in C:/ and all there was was: config.msi, 'g' and bootex. That's it!

Now, it said "42 hidden" at the bottom so obviously the rest of windows is lurking. I try to click on 'options' so I can change it to display hidden folders, but the only options are "map network drive/disconnect network drive/synchronize'

If I type c:/windows/.../ whatever the directory opens up fine, but why the heck is everything in C:/ invisible?

I have literally no idea how to make these files visible again! Any help?

Skull · 7 Sep 2009 at 07:10

Hairybudda said:
Make sure hide system files and view all are enabled, if they are and still hidden get rid of whatever malware is lurking on there, it could (more than likely) be doing this in order to conceal itself.

MBAM is generally pretty good at picking up most lurkers with a full scan from safe mode (after an update of course).

Where do you adjust hide system folders and view all at C:/? I can't find any option to do so.

Skull · 7 Sep 2009 at 07:44

My confusion is because if I click on Computer > C: there is no option anywhere to make hidden files within C: visible. 'Folder options' does not exist under tools. I could go into C:/windows and make files within Windows visible, but that does not make Windows visible from C:...

Skull · 8 Sep 2009 at 04:27

This whole thing is completely messed up. Appreciate 'attrib -h' tip but there are over 2000 hidden folders on a 3.5gb hard drive, it's not worth it!

Gpedit.msc won't bring back the folder options button, registry editing wasn't an option because the DWORD wasn't there. The computer doesn't recognise new USB devices, yadda yadda. I've saved her files and I'm just going to reformat the damn thing!