John,

I really appreciate your help and advice.

As Oren says above:

“If you have no previous experience with Linux and a live CD, think it over carefully. Success requires that you understand the fundamentals of your specific Windows release, plus a working knowledge of Linux and Live CDs - for instance, how to do an md5sum integrity confirmation of your download.”

I have never even seen a Linux system, let alone used one. And I have only the most cursory understanding of my own OS.

One of the principles I try to use in problem solving is not to make the situation worse than it is already.

While it is quite possible that a Linux- based clean up tool would take a look at my dormant Windows system, decide which file or files are the culprit and suitably eliminate them, I have no assurance of this scenario.

Also I am just a little surpised that this solution – if it is as risk free and effective as you suggest - is not more widely recommended in the specialist AV and PC support fora.

So, as Oren suggests, I am still thinking it over.

The solutions I plan to implement, in order, are as follows:
- continue Windows-based remedies and scans until I have reasonably exhaused them
- attempt to remount the image backup I have made with Reflect in the hope that it was made before any of this started occurring
- alternative OS based solution on bootable media (your recommended approach)
- reformat of internal HD and reinstallation of W XP (in the hope that my backed up data is not also infected)

All of these take a fair amount of time, which I do not have what with a FT job, a young family, a gigging band etc.

Because I have not performed your suggestion yet does not mean I have ruled it out.

Thanks again,

Marc