Now is the time to run a virus scan and check for malware. Do it in SAFE MODE. If you don't have anti-malware programs, look for Superantispyware or Malewarebytes. If you installed anything new recently (for example...a toolbar in your web browser) try to uninstall it. Try to do a system restore to a date before the problem began.

There is such a thing as the Windows validation tool-but this sounds fishy. Did you buy this computer new or used? Have you ever reinstalled Windows? Have you ever changed the motherboard in this computer? Is this XP or Vista? More is needed.

Have never done anything in safe mode before, don't even know how to go about something like that, green as grass here with a lot of things. Just got so I understand how to run scan disketc.
Have CC and have run that a few times, Superantispyware also, I have bought this new, was built for me, don't know all the particulars, have XP professional and never reinstalled a darn thing. Never changed the Motherboard, just as was when purchased.
Also, only "new" thing has been Adobe 9, I believe?
Anyone have a link for Malewarebytes? Never have run that one before. Have updated Spybot, and wanted to run CC, but got this screen, not sure what to do. Don't know how to post it here on the forum.

Reboot your machine and press F8 repeatedly until the selection screen comes up to enter safe mode. Run your scans there and post what they find.

Shaddy you can start in safe mode by tapping the F8 button during the initial start up of your computer. A black screen will appear offering a selection of choices, select safe mode. Your screen will look different than before but that is alright. Run you scans - after updating the definitions of course, then reboot normally.

I have included the link to Malwarebytes below. Be sure to keep to the free version as you go along.

Are you saying you have never look for updates to your Windows operating system before? Is the notice saying your windows is invalid coming from Microsoft? If so I would suggest you call the person who built and sold you the computer and ask him/her about this. See what they have to say first but do not offer to pay more money for anything.

Right now we need to assume your computer builder is honest and used a genuine copy of Windows on your computer. A phone call or personal visit to the store might work wonders to clear up the confusion.

Here is a link that might be useful: Malwarebytes download

As always cooler heads prevail, and I have contacted the fella that built the machine from the ground up for me. Waiting for a visit, think he said it might be 2 weeks before he can get here, and so would like to try some of your hints on my own before.
I am always afraid that I will delete the wrong things, and so am looking at baby steps for everything. This machine has overwhelmned me since I brought it in the door in 99.
Guess it knows that huh? I have a bit from the computer forum, someone named Paul sent me so long ago,
"Never show your fear to a computer...they can smell it. Boldly go to Start, Settings, Add/Remove programs, and shoul, "for God and country". If your heart is pure, and your quest rightous, all will be well"
It just doesn't do it, sorry, still apprehensive, always.
I will work on your suggestions, and take it slowly, when I run those programs is everything in default? I do know what that means, and yes, I do have automatic updates coming into the machine whenever they are available.
thank you both for your support, much appreciated.

Do a search on Adobe virus I heard something about it on Tv. but did not catch all of what was said .. Gin

Thanks Gin, there does seem to be a problem, guess I better get rid of the program for the time being, just to be safe?
Owbist, would I do the Add/Remove program application?
Thank you, you are always so cool and collected, I feel better every time you answer a problem of mine.
Hve run the Malware, nothing detected, but am going to try others just to be sure. Thanks again!

Shaddy you have no need to remove any programs at this time.

I am reluctant to suggest you go to the Microsoft update site in case this copy of windows is not legal. Do you know if you have been getting any Windows updates? Sad that your tech cannot come for 2 weeks too but such is life I suppose

It's possible that your computer failed the Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) check.
It happens sometimes, even to legitimate copies of Windows.

Pooh Bear

Pooh Bear, how to know whether or not this might be legit, and failed? I read here a lot, and know that you are a geek as well, wondering how to tell if this might be the case
If indeed it is a counterfeit, then what is going to happen, will I have to close the window all the time? Or will I have to get the builder of the machine to pony up?
thanks for any info you can provide. Much appreciated.

I would go to the windows update site and try to get your updates directly there from that site, select custom so that you can see the actual updates it says are there. It will run the WGA check on your system right then and there and will let you know if your copy passes or fails. It does not at all mean you have a pirated copy however, many legit copies have been flagged as not legit, dell computers has had a real problem with being flagged as non legit copies.
Some times it takes a phone call to MS to get it cleared. Since it was a custom build I would do the updates from the update page and if it still says you have a pirated copy do contact your builder and see if he can assist you.

for xp to go to windows update click start, all programs and at the top you should see windows update.

Shaddy, good advice from owbist and ravencajun. Take it one step at a time and go to the Windows update site as RC suggested. There was a security update for Internet Explorer this past Tuesday.

Pulling for you, gal!

It's a known problem with Windows Update.
Sometimes a computer fails the WGA check when it boots.

The link below explains it better than I can.
I uploaded this to my personal webspace so you can view it.
I can't leave it there indefinitely.

Pooh Bear

Here is a link that might be useful: Windows Genuine Advantage is still genuinely bad

Thank you Raven for your wise advice, will take it slow grams, as always, and owbist is right as well. Pooh, have copied your kindness to Word for later viewing, and appreciate your sharing that info most graciously.
As I am always apprehensive about this machine, you know that from pervious postings I am sure, this one has really hit me between the eyes, and so I am reeling with the thoughts going thru my head.
Thanks to all that responded, do appreciate your input so, as being alone, and trying things for yourself, sometimes is just overwhelming, and too much to comprehend.
I am nagging the tech to come sooner, but as owbist said, such is life, and have to take it as it comes.
Have a great day all?

" I have a bit from the computer forum, someone named Paul sent me so long ago, "

I miss Paul.