Recently I downloaded an ActiveX component from a website.  Little did I realize I would soon be inundated with annoying pop-ups.  I have tried many different programs to remove the problem and still up they pop.  It's not only aggravating, but 
it is costing my money since I use this machine for my business and it constantly tries to take over the active window.  So even typing something like this is prone to interruption.  Web addresses are cut off before I can complete them, and they even bother me when I am not on my browser. 

I have read about Messenger service popups, so I tried that advice.  Others said change browsers and don't use IE.  So I used Firefox, and still the ads popped.  I have used EZ Trust Antivirus, which I just 
dumped.  Avast! Which I am using now, which found several Trojans on the first sweep.  I have used many programs, including AdAware, Spybot Search and Destroy, Ultimate PopUp Killer, Zero PopUps, 123Washads, and Xoftspy, and I am still plagued.  

Some will say I deserve what I get because I said yes to the download of the ActiveX control.  I suppose I do have a responsiblity for that.  But it does not excuse the practice in the first place.  Long before I accidentally downloaded this control, someone schemed and worked to find ways to take over the control of unsuspecting computers.  I also found at least two keyloggers on my machine.  Also a product of the same good folks who conspired to steal more than just my computer viewing time.  

Therefore, I believe a lawsuit is very likely in this case.  But whom to sue?  Thankfully, this malware leaves very many footprints.  And it also has many breadcrumb trails back to large national advertisers.  These are supposedly fine upstanding corporate citizines. But apparently, they aren't too disturbed that your computer has been hijacked so you can see their ads.  That makes them culpable.  

I am saving all the ads as I have the opportunity.  Unfortunately, I have other things to do as well.  So many of the ads will slip by without being noted.  I plan to contact the corporations whose ads are popping up on my computer and find out just exactly why they have to stoop to such dubious means to advertise.  Don't they realize I would NEVER buy from a company that stole from me?  

These guys are going to have to pay.  To redirect and steal my computer is not only very bad public relations, but it is bad business.  I'm sure shareholders would be concerned if their investments were being placed in jeopardy by such illicit and deceitful practices.  

I would like to hear from anyone who may know how to remove this pop up generator, short of formatting my harddrive.  Also I would like to hear from you if you have had similar experiences.  A class action lawsuit would be much more effective and lucrative for the victims.  So let's make the advertisers accountable, report them here in our Pop-Up Hall Of Shame.

It's not likely Congress will do anything to outlaw this sort of virtual kidnapping, so its up to us to find a way to dissuade their use.  Any suggestions are welcome.  This list will expand as we discover more vermin.  Enjoy.

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