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General discussion

empty recycle bin icon shows files - emptying asks if I really want to delete "Windows"

Mar 13, 2004 5:35AM PST

All of a sudden today, my empty recycle bin showed the full icon. On opening it the window was blank and the status bar info showed there to be zero bytes within the bin, however, "empty recycle bin" was present as one of the options, on selecting this i was asked whether or not I really wanted to delete "windows". at this point, mild panic set in and I decided it best not to say yes to this!!!!
I have run Spy bot and AVG but to no avail, now i'm stumped, any ideas??

Discussion is locked

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(NT) Which Operating System ??
Mar 13, 2004 5:57AM PST

.

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Re:empty recycle bin icon shows files - emptying asks if I really want to delete
Mar 13, 2004 5:58AM PST

Just be sure and run a web based antivirus to be sure (Housecall), but a certain "Joke" or malware would put a file called "windows" into the recycle bin to scare the user. You didn't note what OS, so I can't tell if the following link will help you.

http://www.bcaafc.com/tech/software/9598tips2.html
Hint: applies to Windows ME as well.
Second Hint: No. The web page will NEVER note it appliese to Windows ME.

Bob

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Always forget that - one day i'll remember
Mar 13, 2004 6:08AM PST

I'm running XP Home.

did have NAV 2004 installed, gave me too many problems to note so uninstalled and reverted to the free avg program.

any other info that may help - let me know, in the mean time will look over the link you provided and post a reply to let you know the outcome. cheers

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View the hidden file, then look what is in your recycle bin
Mar 13, 2004 2:17PM PST

In the menu, Tools, Folder Options, View tab, under Hidden Files and Folders Check 'Show Hidden Files and Folders'

While you are there, unchecked the box for 'Hide extensions for known file types'

Now you can see what is hidden with the extension.

Then you can see the date deleted etc. and decide what you going to do.

But, don't forget to check everything R. Proffit suggested.
You might also try 'Adaware' as it might catch something Spybot didn't.

After you finished, its better to re-hide the system files and folder again.