Malware Removal
1. Install a free malware removal program if your computer is not currently protected, Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware is free to use (see Resources below).
2. Open up the malware removal program.

3. Run a full system scan by selecting the 'Scan all files and folders' option. Allow several hours for the scan to complete.
4. Remove any malware found on the computer system.
5. Restart the computer to confirm your changes.
6. Confirm Windows Explorer is repaired. Click on the 'Start' icon and click on 'My Documents' or 'Documents.' A repaired Windows Explorer will allow you to select files and double-click on folders, and no error messages should be displayed.
Installing Windows Updates and Patches
7. Install Windows updates and patches on the computer through Internet Explorer. Installing available updates will fix insecurities and vulnerabilities found in Windows, which will also update and fix any known issues with Windows Explorer.
8. Open up a new Internet Explorer web browser window.
9. Click on the 'Safety' button located on the Command Bar if you are using Internet Explorer 8. Choose 'Windows Update.' Confirm you wish to update Windows and install available patches.
10. Click on the 'Tools' button if you are using Internet Explorer 7. Select the 'Windows Update' option. Follow the on-screen instructions for Windows file updates.
11. Restart the computer once files have been updated.
12. Click on the 'Start' icon and select 'All Programs' or 'Programs.'
13. Click on the 'Accessories' icon.
14. Double-click on the 'Windows Explorer' icon. A new window will launch with 'MyS Documents' or 'Documents' as the default folder. Browse files and folders now that Windows Explorer has been updated.
Fixing Corrupt Windows Operating System Files
15. Fix corrupted Windows operating system files by using Windows' System File Checker. Using this utility will fix any corrupted Windows Explorer files that have been altered by a virus or spyware. It will also repair files that have been corrupted by a bad program installation.
16. Click on the 'Start' icon.
17. Click on the 'Run' icon in Windows XP. Type in 'sfc /scannow' to launch the program.
18. Type in 'sfc' in the search field if you are using Windows Vista. Double-click on the icon 'sfc'--it will be shown in lowercase letters.
19. The scan will start immediately. Do not restart or turn off your computer until prompted by the program. Allow the scan to complete, which may take several hours.
Reset Windows Explorer Settings
20. Click on the 'Start' icon and click on the 'Control Panel' icon to open it.
21. Double-click on the 'Folder Options' icon.
22. Click on the 'View' tab.
23. Click on the 'Reset Folders' button. Click on the 'Apply' button to confirm your changes.
24. Close out the open window by click on the 'X' at the top.