hi, i dont know where this came from but i can't get rid of it. is it a trojan? can anyone help,please.......

Hi Chris, You'll find that there is a ntuser.dat in every UserAccounts' folders under the 'Documents and Settings' folder. It's got the info about your account, so don't harm it in any way. You can't remove because XP is using it or has protected it from, well, ...YOU !:) svg

thanks svg...... but how come it has only just appeared?

You mean: WindowsExplorer didn't show it earlier, and now it's listed? Check the Folderoptions: WindowsExplorer>Tools or ControlPanel> On the 'View' Tab, scroll down the options-list: 'show hidden files & folders' 'hide protected system files' One of these settings is enabled/disabled so that ntuser.dat has become visible. No need to worry, I guess, 'coz as you've seen: XP will (most of the time) warn you if you're doing something wrong with files that are in use or protected. I like it when nothing is hidden from me, but it's up to you what to do. HTH - Happy NewYear!! svg

right i understand now......tvm svg and happy new year to you too....... all the best chris......

Hi how about an error mesg I am getting when I open outlook express: "Cannot delete ntuser.dat There has been a sharing violation The source or the destination file maybe in use." I am getting this error mesg but I am still able open the outlook express and send and receive my mail. It is not effecting the functionality of the Outlook Express or anything else but just irritates. BTW I have a 2000 Pro and I can see the ntuser.dat file under my user folder. It is not hidden and it is there. Any ideas how to get rid of this mesg. Thanks folks...

Hi cetin, I have no idea why Outlook Express would be messing with your accountfiles. In fact, I would find it very suspicious, because outlook express is linked to MsMessenger, and that is notorious for allowing security-risks. I would strongly advise you to read this: GRC Shoot The Messenger To me, your symptoms point in the direction of someone trying to exploit the security-flaws in MsMessenger and altering your user-setup. Have your computer tested at GRC with the ShieldsUp! test. Also make sure you have a firewall running, and check your computer for spyware with these two at least: [Keep in mind that they need to be updated over the web when first started, and before zapping the baddies!] Spybot Search & Destroy Lavasoft Adaware