Unknown Startup Program

Question

I separated from an abusive partner against whom I have a restraining order. While we were together, he surveilled me and I am concerned that his has continued into the present. I am trying to look through my phone and computer for unknown and hidden programs. There is a program in my startup menu that is just called "Program." It does not list a publisher, the startup impact is "not measured," it does not have an icon. It says it is enabled, but when I right click on it "Properties" is greyed out and I can not investigate for further info.

Can anyone advise as to how I can research this further, and how to look for spyware and hidden programs generally?

Answer 1

Hi GMFxvii

I am Dave, an Independent Advisor, I will help you with this . . .

1

That 'Program' entry is actually a known bug in Windows 10

Click the link below to download a small free utility that does not require installation

https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/d...

When the file downloads, unzip it.

Depending on your system, run Autoruns or Autoruns64 as Administrator

In Autoruns, choose the Logon Tab

There you will see that 'Program' entry, right click that and choose Delete

2

To search your PC for Spyware or malware, you should run a scan with the free version of MalwareBytes . . .

https://www.malwarebytes.com/

________________________________________________________

Standard Disclaimer This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.