BleepingComputer.com: "Do not run Combofix in Compatability Mode

While attempting to run combofix on a Windows 2000 computer, I received the following message, "Do not run ComboFix in Compatability Mode. Doing so may damage the machine." What is this telling me. It won't let me go any further.

This post has been edited by Orange Blossom: 28 September 2011 - 10:32 AM
Reason for edit: Moved to AV forum. ~ OB

As a general policy, Bleeping Computer does not offer advice on how to run ComboFix unless we asked someone to run it. This is because people should not be using ComboFix without being advised to do so by a trained expert (i.e. Malware Response Team) who is assisting a member deal a malware issue on that system. When issues arise due to complex malware infections, possible false detections, problems running ComboFix (i.e. stalling, hanging, crashing) or with other security tools causing conflicts, experts are usually aware of them and can advise what should or should not be done while providing individual assistance. When false detections are identified, experts have access to the developer and can report them so he can investigate, confirm and make corrections. Those attempting to use ComboFix on their own do not have such information and are at risk when running the tool in an unsupervised environment. Using this tool incorrectly could lead to disastrous problems with your operating system such as preventing it from ever starting again.

Further, using ComboFix is only one part of the disinfection process. Preliminary scans from other tools like DDS, RSIT and GMER should be used first because they provide comprehensive logs with specific details about files, folders and registry keys which may have been modified by malware infection. Analysis of those logs allows planning an strategy for effective disinfection and a determination if using ComboFix is necessary. Please read the pinned topic ComboFix usage, Questions, Help? - Look here.

While our policy is not to offer advice on running ComboFix unless we asked someone to run it, we are certainly willing to help with malware disinfection. If that assistance requires running ComboFix, you will be advised what to do in order to get the tool to run properly or investigate any error messages. If you need such assistance, please read the "Preparation Guide For Use Before Using Malware Removal Tools and Requesting Help" When you have done that, post your log in the Virus, Trojan, Spyware, and Malware Removal Logs forum, NOT here, for assistance by the Malware Response Team Experts.