Weird Registry Behaviour - XP Pro SP2

[FIGMENT]

Hi all,

First post, so please be gentle.

I recently reformatted and did a clean install of XP, followed by the usual myriad of updates. I have anti-virus, spyware and adware protection all scans show clean.

My problem is that changes made to the registry (example, new program adding itself to the Run key, or changes made via Tools > Internet Options > Advanced in Internet Explorer) show in the registry immediately after making the change, but disappear at the next reboot.

I've checked through group policies countless times in case I've inadvertently changed a setting while testing things (ok, fiddling around), but cannot find anything obvious.

I can fix most problems but so far this one has me beat, so any help or pointers on where to begin looking most welcome.

[glc]

Are you using an administrative account?

[FIGMENT]

Yes.

[MaximumDMA]

Possibly Virus?

[FIGMENT]

Definitely NOT a virus or malware. Running Sophos A/V with latest definitions. Regular scans with HijackThis, Spybot, AdAware and XoftSpy - all show clear.

[Paintbait]

That doesn't mean it's not malware or a virus. From what I know viruses, and malware in particular, have a tendency of hiding themselves. But it stands to reason that if you scanned with all that, that it's not a viri. Although you might want to try Rootkit Revealer and see if it turns anything up.

[MaximumDMA]

Impressive though, you have to admit.....