sj123,
I don't see any malware on your system.
If the machine were mine, I would be thinking about a bad or corrupt driver, possibly for the graphics function.
I would go online and see if there are any driver updates for the ATI graphics system in the laptop.
Also check the manufacturers forum to see whether others have had freezing problems on that model.
At this point, I think the solution to your problem now is a bit outside our expertise here.
It will be more suitable for forums that specialize in Systems and hardware issues.
---------------------------------------------------------Good System/Hardware Help Forums NutNWorks here:
http://www.nutnworks.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=60or
GeekstoGo here for Vista/Windows 7:
http://www.geekstogo.com/forum/Windows-Vista-Windows-7-f79.htmlor
Computer Trouble here:
http://forum.computertrouble.co.uk/index.phpor
TechSupportGuy here :
http://forums.techguy.org/21-windows-nt-2000-xp/or
Security Cadets PC and software help Section at :
http://forum.securitycadets.com/All may require you to register free before posting for help.
askey127