Thread: Generic Host Proccess Shutdown

  1. #1
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    Generic Host Proccess Shutdown

    Lately my computer has been shutting down frequently for no known reason. The message comes up "Generic Host Process - Win 32" and then reads that the computer will shut down in one minute and to save any infornation or it will be lost. I am a computer technician and have never seen this before. I did a little research on the internet and found out that that the Generic Host process for Win32 is a spyware program that Microsoft incorporated into it's Windows XP editions, and can run silently in the background sending out information as fast as you can click your mouse. In order to access the internet this process is never needed and only for gathering personal information. I have had numerous calls to my store about this problem, and it seems that the only people effected by this shutdown error is people who have cracked copies of Windows XP. Also, I think that it might have to do with our internet service provider working with Microsoft to stop software piracy. The error can be easily fixed by using a fire wall, and blocking the Generic Host Process. It is not needed for any of Windows XP's normal fuction. My question is, has anyone else experienced this problem. I would like to find out if it is just local, or if it is wide spread. Like I said, I think it is our service provider running a program that detects certain known serial numbers that are pirated copies. Thank you, an any added info would be greatly appreciated as I would like to find out as much as possible about this error.
    "The distinction between past, present and future is only an illussion, even if a stunning one."
    -Albert Einstein

  2. #2
    C++ Developer XSquared's Avatar
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    Congratulations, you're infected by Win32.Blaster!!!!
    Naturally I didn't feel inspired enough to read all the links for you, since I already slaved away for long hours under a blistering sun pressing the search button after typing four whole words! - Quzah

    You. Fetch me my copy of the Wall Street Journal. You two, fight to the death - Stewie

  3. #3
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    yah its pretty bad, ive come across about 4 dozen clients infected so far

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    I have never heard of this. Is it new, and how is it repaired. Do you know of the spyware that is incorporated into Windows XP, because I would like to know all I can about it. A little more information would be nice - thanks!
    Last edited by Tommaso; 08-13-2003 at 09:24 PM.
    "The distinction between past, present and future is only an illussion, even if a stunning one."
    -Albert Einstein

  5. #5
    C++ Developer XSquared's Avatar
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    If you're in the US, call 1-877-909-8333 for removal instructions. Or you can visit http://securityresponse.symantec.com...ter.worm.html.
    Naturally I didn't feel inspired enough to read all the links for you, since I already slaved away for long hours under a blistering sun pressing the search button after typing four whole words! - Quzah

    You. Fetch me my copy of the Wall Street Journal. You two, fight to the death - Stewie

  6. #6
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    theres a period at the end of ur link, so heres the repaired link
    http://securityresponse.symantec.com...ster.worm.html

  7. #7
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    I found a site that lets you download a fix. It's at: http://xtra.co.nz/help/0,,4155-2582713,00.html#2

    I scanned my computer, but it seems that I do not have this virus. I think my problem is something different, but thanks for the help.

    I will try your link to check again. I have heard rumors that the problem is with our ISP here in Hamilton. When I find out for sure, I will post my findings.
    "The distinction between past, present and future is only an illussion, even if a stunning one."
    -Albert Einstein

  8. #8
    It's full of stars adrianxw's Avatar
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    You symptoms do indicate you are infected with MSBlast.exe

    This...

    >>>
    found out that that the Generic Host process for Win32 is a spyware program that Microsoft incorporated into it's Windows XP editions, and can run silently in the background sending out information as fast as you can click your mouse.
    <<<

    Indicates you are infected with a mis-information virus.

    That is totally incorrect, and is the kind of thing you can find posted by anti-MS people in all manner of places.

    Generic host processes, (there can be more than one), are simply the wrappers around Windows installed services. If you have installed a service which is spyware, then that is your choice, but all the generic host process is doing is running it for you as you have asked it to do.

    For removal of spyware, download AdAware6, (there is a limited edition which is free), or SpyBot, (also free). These will advise you what spy's you are currently running.
    Wave upon wave of demented avengers march cheerfully out of obscurity unto the dream.

  9. #9
    C++ Developer XSquared's Avatar
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    If it doesn't happen every time you boot up, it may just be caused by failed attempts by the Win32.Blaster virus to exploit the RPC bug on your PC, which also would cause the PC to crash. Try getting a firewall if this is the case. I know that some ISPs have also blocked the ports that Win32.Blaster uses to distribute itself.
    Naturally I didn't feel inspired enough to read all the links for you, since I already slaved away for long hours under a blistering sun pressing the search button after typing four whole words! - Quzah

    You. Fetch me my copy of the Wall Street Journal. You two, fight to the death - Stewie

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