McAfee update corrupts XP machines
The killer file – 5958 DAT
On Wednesday 21st April 2010 McAfee released a new update DAT for its antivirus software that caused thousands of XP computers worldwide to shutdown and then fail to boot. The 5958 DAT flags svchost.exe as spyware/malware and then deletes the file that is needed by windows. Your workstation shuts does and becomes useless!
The Fix
Firstly you need to download a new SUPER DAT file called SDAT5958_EM.exe and save it to a USB stick or CD. The download link is below:
http://download.nai.com/products/mcafee-avert/tools/SDAT5958_EM.exe
Once the new SUPER DAT is on your portable media you must boot the dead PC in safe mode. Just tap F8 from when the PC starts booting and you’ll get the option to boot into safe mode. Once there run your downloaded EXE and restart the PC, everything should come back to normal.
McAfee have now removed this update from their website preventing any further disruption to their customers. If you need any support with this issue drop us a line.