Smart HDD Uninstall Instructions

Smart HDD is a malicious software that will display fake alerts, claiming that several hard drive errors were detected on your computer.The alerts are professional looking pop-ups and when you click on them, you’re advised to buy Smart HDD in order to fix this errors.
In reality, none of the reported issues are real, and are only used to scare you into buying Smart HDD and stealing your personal financial information.
If you’ve got a Smart HDD infection , you’ll be seeing this screens :

[Image: Smart-HDD.png]

Smart HDD will generate the following error messages:

Hard drive boot sector reading error
During I/O system initialization, the boot device driver might have failed to initialize the boot device. File system initialization might have failed because it did not recognize the data on the boot device.

System blocks were not found
This has most likely occurred because of hard disk failure.
This may also lead to a potential loss of data.

Error 0×00000024 – NTFS_FILE_SYSTEM
The Stop 0×24 message indicates that a problems occurred within Ntfs.sys, the driver file that allows the system to read and write to NTFS file system drives. It is most often related to hard drive errors.

Error 0×00000078 – INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE
The Stop 0×78 message indicates that Windows has lost access to the system partition or boot volume during the startup process. During I/O system initialization, the boot device driver might have failed to initialize the boot device (typically a hard disk). Repartitioning the system partition or installing a new SATA/RAID adapter or disk controller might also induce this error.

The DRM attribute value is too small before disk scan
Drive Reliability Monitor (a system or monitoring the reliability of disc drive functioning). The malfunction counter built into the disk drive shows excessive number of malfunctions. The storage device needs to be replaced.

Error 0×00000050 – PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
The Stop 0×50 message indicates that requested data was not in memory. The system generates an exception error when using a reference to an invalid system memory address.

Error 0x0000002E – DATA_BUS_ERROR
The Stop 0x2E message is typically caused by failed or defective RAM (including motherboard, Level 2 cache, or video memory), incompatible or mismatched memory hardware, or when a device driver attempts to access an address in the 0x8xxxxxxx range that does not exist (does not map to a physical address).

Registration codes for Smart HDD

As an optional step,you can use the following license key to register Smart HDD and stop the fake alerts.
15801587234612645205224631045976
Please keep in mind that entering the above registration code will NOT remove Smart HDD from your computer , instead it will just stop the fake alerts so that you’ll be able to complete our removal guide more easily.
We strongly advise you to follow our Smart HDD removal guide and ignore any alerts that this malicious software might generate.Under no circumstance should you buy this rogue security software as this could lead to identity theft.

Removal guide for Smart HDD

STEP 1 : Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking

  1. Remove all floppy disks, CDs, and DVDs from your computer, and then restart your computer.
  2. Press and hold the F8 key as your computer restarts.Please keep in mind that you need to press the F8 key before the Windows  start-up logo appears.
  3. On the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Safe Mode with Networking , and then press ENTER.
    [Image: Safemode.jpg]
  4. Log on to your computer with a user account that has administrator rights

STEP 2: Remove Smart HDD malicious proxy server

Smart HDD may add a proxy server which prevents the user from accessing the internet,follow the below instructions to remove the proxy.

  1. Start Internet Explorer [Image: Smart HDD- IE] and if you are using Internet Explorer 9 ,click on the gear icon   [Image: IE gear icon] (Tools for Internet Explorer 8 users) ,then select Internet Options.
    [Image: Internet-options-IE.png]
  2. Go to the tab Connections.At the bottom, click on LAN settings.
    [Image: Remove-proxy-server2.png]
  3. Uncheck the option Use a proxy server for your LAN. This should remove the malicious proxy server and allow you to use the internet again.
    [Image: Remove-proxy-server3.png]

If you are a Firefox users, go to Firefox(upper left corner) → Options → Advanced tab → Network → Settings → Select No Proxy

STEP 3: Run RKill to terminate known malware processes associated with Smart HDD.

RKill is a program that attempts to terminate any malicious processes associated with Smart HDD ,so that your normal security software can then run and clean your computer of infections.

As RKill only terminates a program’s running process, and does not delete any files, after running it you should not reboot your computer as any malware processes that are configured to start automatically will just be started again.

  1. While your computer is in Safe Mode with Networking ,please download the latest official version of RKill.
    [Image: download-rkill.png
  2. Double-click on the RKill iconin order to automatically attempt to stop any processes associated with Smart HDD.
    [Image: run-rkill-1.png]
  3. RKill will now start working in the background, please be patient while the program looks for various malware programs and tries to terminate them.
    [Image: run-rkill-2.png]
    IF you receive a message that RKill is an infection, that is a fake warning given by the rogue. As a possible solution we advise you to leave the warning on the screen and then try to run RKill again.Run RKill until the fake program is not visible but not more than ten times.
    IF you continue having problems running RKill, you can download the other renamed versions of RKill from here.
  4. When Rkill has completed its task, it will generate a log. You can then proceed with the rest of the guide.
    [Image: Smart HDD rkill3.jpg]

WARNING: Do not reboot your computer after running RKill as the malware process will start again , preventing you from properly performing the next step.

STEP 4: Remove Smart HDD malicious files with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE

  1. Please download the latest official version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE.
    download Malwarebytes
  2. Install Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware by double clicking on mbam-setup.
    [Image: malwarebytes-installer.png]
  3. When the installation begins, keep following the prompts in order to continue with the installation process. Do not make any changes to default settings and when the program has finished installing, make sure you leave both the Update Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware and Launch Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware checked. Then click on the Finishbutton. If Malwarebytes’ prompts you to reboot, please do not do so.
    [Image: install-malwarebytes.png]
  4. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start and you’ll be prompted to start a trial period , please select ‘Decline‘ as we just want to use the on-demand scanner.
    [Image: decline-trial-malwarebytes.png]
  5. On the Scanner tab,please select Perform full scan and then click on the Scan button to start scanning your computer for any possible infections.
    [Image: malwarebytes-full-system-scan.png]
  6. Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for Smart HDD malicious files as shown below.
    [Image: malwarebytes-scanning.png]
  7. When the scan is finished a message box will appear, click OK to continue.
    [Image: malwarebytes-scan-finish.png]
  8. You will now be presented with a screen showing you the malware infections that Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware has detected.Please note that the infections found may be different than what is shown in the image.Make sure that everything is Checked (ticked) and click on the Remove Selected button.
    [Image: malwarebytes-scan-results.png]
  9. Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start removing the malicious files.If during the removal process Malwarebytes will display a message stating that it needs to reboot, please allow this request.
    [Image: malwarebytes-reboot-prompt.png]

STEP 5: Double check your system for any left over infections with HitmanPro

  1. This step can be performed in Normal Mode ,so please download the latest official version of HitmanPro.
    [Image: Download Hitman Pro]
  2. Double click on the previously downloaded file to start the HitmanPro installation.
    [Image: hitmanpro-icon.png]
    NOTE : If you have problems starting HitmanPro, use the “Force Breach” mode. Hold down the left CTRL-key when you start HitmanPro and all non-essential processes are terminated, including the malware process. (How to start HitmanPro in Force Breach mode – Video)
  3. Click on Next to install HitmanPro on your system.
    [Image: installing-hitmanpro.png]
  4. The setup screen is displayed, from which you can decide whether you wish to install HitmanPro on your machine or just perform a one-time scan, select a option then click on Next to start a system scan.
    [Image: hitmanpro-setup-options.png]
  5. HitmanPro will start scanning your system for malicious files. Depending on the size of your hard drive, and the performance of your computer, this step will take several minutes.
    [Image: hitmanpro-scanning.png]
  6. Once the scan is complete,a screen displaying all the malicious files that the program found will be shown as seen in the image below.After reviewing each malicious object click Next.
    [Image: hitmanpro-scan-results.png]
  7. Click Activate free license to start the free 30 days trial and remove the malicious files.
    [Image: hitmanpro-activation.png]
  8. HitmanPro will now start removing the infected objects, and in some instances, may suggest a reboot in order to completely remove the malware from your system. In this scenario, always confirm the reboot action to be on the safe side.

STEP 6: Unhide your files and folders

Smart HDD modifies your file system in such a way that all files and folders become hidden, to restore the default settings , you’ll need to run the below program.

  1. Please download Tweaking.com-UnhideNonSystemFiles.exe to unhide your files and folders.
    [Image: download-unhide.png]
  2. Double click on Tweaking.com-UnhideNonSystemFiles.exe and when the utility starts click on the ‘Start’ button to unhide your files.
    [Image: unhide-icon.png]

STEP 7 : Restore your shortcuts and remove any left over malicious registry keys

Smart HDD has moved your shortcuts files in the Temporary Internet folder and added some malicious registry keys to your Windows installation , to restore your files we will need to perform a scan with RogueKiller.

  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    download RogueKiller
  2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Start button to perform a system scan.
    [Image: roguekiller-1.png]
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
    [Image: roguekiller-2.png]
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
    [Image: roguekiller-1.png]

STEP 8: Get your desktop look back!

Smart HDD changes your desktop background to a solid black color,to change it back to default one follow the below instruction.

    • Windows XP : Click on the Start button and then select Control Panel. When the Control Panel opens, please click on the Display icon. From this screen you can now change your Theme and desktop background.
    • Windows 7 and Vista : Click on the Start button and then select Control Panel. When the Control Panel opens, please click on the Appearance and Personalization category. Then select Change the Theme or Change Desktop Background to revert back to your original Theme and colors.

STEP 9: Restore your pinned task bar shortcuts , star menu items and other missing icons.

Smart HDD has moved your saved pinned task bar items and other shortcuts into the temporary internet folder, so now we will have to copy them back to their original location.
1. Enable on your system the ‘Show hidden files, folders, and drives’ option.

  • If you are using Windows 7 or Vista,go to Computer → Click on the Organize tab → select Folder and search options.
  • If you are using Windows XP,go to My ComputerTools tab → select Folder Options.
    [Image: viewhiddenfiles.png]

In the new window that appeared select the View tab and choose the option Show hidden files, folders, and drives then click Apply and OK.
[Image: Show hidden files, folders, and drives.png]

2.This rogue software has moved your shorcuts in a folder in the Temporary Internet files called smtmp, so now we will need to copy them back to their original locations.

  • Windows 7 and Vista users can find the smtmp folder in C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local\Temp
  • Windows XP users can find smtmp folder the in : C:\DOCUMENTS AND SETTINGS\[Your Username]\LOCAL SETTINGS\Temp

[Image: Show hidden files, folders, and drives.png]

The smtmp folder will contain 4 folders and you’ll need to copy the content of this folders back to their original locations.

  • Copy the content from %Temp%\smtmp\1\ to:
    Windows XP: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu
    Windows Vista and Windows 7: C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu
  • Copy the content from %Temp%\smtmp\2\ to:
    Windows XP: C:\Documents and Settings\[your username]\Application Data\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\
    Windows Vista and Windows 7: C:\Users\[your username]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\
  • Copy the content from %Temp%\smtmp\3\ to:
    Windows XP: It does not exist on Windows  XP.
    Windows Vista and Windows 7 C:\Users\[your username]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\User Pinned\TaskBar
  • Copy the content from %Temp%\smtmp\4\ to:
    Windows XP : C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Desktop
    Windows Vista and Windows 7: C:\Users\Public\Desktop

If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove Smart HDD from your machine, please start a new thread in our Malware Removal Assistance forum.

What’s next? Join our amazing community and build up your malware defenses !

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

20 thoughts on “Smart HDD Uninstall Instructions”

  1. Thank you so much! I thought all hope was lost. Perfectly helpful instructions that completely fixed my computer!

  2. THANK YOU!!! This was well written, detailed, and simple to follow. Many kudos to you for this!

  3. Hello,
    You can use any email with that code (use something like fakeemail@gmai.com) :)

    Please follow this steps to start Internet Explorer:

    1. Create a new Notepad file on the desktop. To do this right click on the desk top, go to “create new” and click on the Notepad icon.
    2. Open the Notepad file and type the following (or copy and paste it):
      @echo off
      START /max iexplore.exe
    3. Click “Save As” under File.
    4. Save the file as “Internet Explorer.bat”.
    5. Be sure to scroll at the bottom of the save screen to select “All Files” or else it will save it as a Notepad file/Text document.
    6. lso make sure to end the file with .bat or this will not work.
    7. Exit the file.
    8. An icon on your desktop should say “Internet Explorer.bat” and it will look like a box with a gear inside of it. Double click on this icon to run Internet Explorer.

    NEXT,run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware in Chameleon Mode:

    1. Download Malwarebytes Chameleon from here and extract it to a folder in a convenient location
    2. Make certain that your PC is connected to the internet and then open the folder where you extracted Chameleon to and double-click on the Chameleon help file and then follow the onscreen instructions to use it.
    3. If the Chameleon help file itself will not open, then double-click each file one by one until you find one that works, which will be indicated by a black DOS/command prompt window Note: Do not attempt to open mbam-killer as that is not a Chameleon executable and serves a different purpose)
    4. Follow the onscreen instructions to press a key to continue and Chameleon will proceed to download and install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for you
    5. Once it has done this, it will attempt to update Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, click OK when it says that the database was updated successful
    6. Next, Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will automatically open and perform a Quick scan
    7. Upon completion of the scan, if anything has been detected, click on Show Result
    8. Have Malwarebytes Anti-Malware remove any threats that are detected and click Yes if prompted to reboot your computer to allow the removal process to complete
    9. After your computer restarts, open Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and perform a Full System scan to verify that there are no remaining threats

    2.Next,please perform a scan with HitmanPro,RogueKiller and Unhide.exe as seen on the guide.

  4. ***** Problem ****

    Thanks so much Malwaretips.com, your work is excellent! Now for my problem!

    I can not get onto any browser in safe mode with networking, nor can I find Internet Explorer. I’ve inputted the above code, but do not have an email address to go with the code.

    PLLLLLLLLLLLEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAASSSSSSEEEEEE HELP!

    Tom

  5. Thank you so much for assisting me to resolve the SMART HDD problem. It took me some time but it was worth it. The downloads all worked to perfection in restoring all of my information. I recommend this Website to anynoe with this particular infection. Without it may have cost me great expense.

  6. This information was so helpful. I was so pissed when I realized something had taken over on my system. I think some of these programs aren’t as necessary to install as the others and are only used as advertisement, but I think that’s fine considering I couldn’t take care of this problem without these directions. SOO, I installed every single one and will tell people how wonderful they were. Thank. xx

  7. My deepest gratitude to you for providing this information!! I nearly pulled my hair out wondering how I was going to fix this problem. It took a little while, but it worked! Thank you so much!

  8. If I had known these steps, I probably wouldn’t have had to do a complete reinstall of my friend’s OS. We ran combofix and malwarebytes, and they detected and removed it, but it wouldn’t reboot windows, and had to do a full recovery.

  9. Thank you. I really appreciate your help. I was very lucky to find your article on the internet. Otherwise I would have paid that fake company “Smart HDD” to fix the problem. I wish, we had more thoughtful and kind people like you to help human beings, Not to bother them.

  10. Thank you so much it took a lot of time but it has worked

    I really thought i had lost my computer !!!

  11. Thank you so much. I was retarded and hadn’t saved a weeks worth of work on my sci-fi novel two weeks before sending to a publisher. You have saved my hide sir. Thank you.

  12. Thank you!! My computer is up and running using these directions and this was after I wasted hours working with the vendor that my virus protector is through. I had trouble with RogueKiller and was never able to complete the process but other than that everything worked great.

  13. Thank you so much for these directions. They were a godsend when Smart HDD completely corrupted my computer.

  14. THANK YOU! Your helpful, altruistic efforts have saved my computer (and, my research dissertation)!

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