File Recovery - Virus Removal Guide

File Recovery is a computer virus that will report that it has found several bogus errors and issues on your computer.
As you’ve probably realized by now, File Recovery is not a real program and it needs to be removed from your computer.
This guide will remove this infection and get you back your files and folders.
If your computer is infected with File Recovery virus,then you are seeing this images:

Here are some other alerts that File Recovery will use into scare you into purchasing this product:

Hard drive boot sector reading error
System blocks were not found
Error 0×00000024 – NTFS_FILE_SYSTEM
Error 0×00000078 – INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE
Error 0x0000002E – DATA_BUS_ERROR
Error 0×00000050 – PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
The DRM attribute value is too small before disk scan

We strongly advise you to follow our File Recovery virus 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,and if you have, you should contact your credit card company and dispute the charge stating that the program is a scam and a computer virus.

Registration codes for File Recovery
As an optional step,you can use the following license key to register File Recovery virus and stop the fake alerts.
File Recovery activation code: 56723489134092874867245789235982
Please keep in mind that entering the above registration code will NOT remove File Recovery from your computer , instead it will just stop the fake alerts so that you’ll be able to complete our removal guide more easily.

File Recovery Removal Instructions

STEP 1 : Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking

Remove all floppy disks, CDs, and DVDs from your computer, and then restart your computer.
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.
Note: With some computers, if you press and hold a key as the computer is booting you will get a stuck key message. If this occurs, instead of pressing and holding the “F8 key”, tap the “F8 key” continuously until you get the Advanced Boot Options screen.
On the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Safe Mode with Networking , and then press ENTER.

STEP 2: Remove File Recovery malicious proxy server

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

Start the Internet Explorer browser and if you are using Internet Explorer 9 ,click on the gear icon (Tools for Internet Explorer 8 users) ,then select Internet Options.
Go to the tab Connections.At the bottom, click on LAN settings.
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.

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 File Recovery.

RKill is a program that will attempt to terminate all malicious processes associated with File Recovery virus,so that we will be able to perform the next step without being interrupted by this malicious software.
Because this utility will only stop File Recovery 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.

While your computer is in Safe Mode with Networking ,please download the latest official version of RKill.Please note that we will use a renamed version of RKILL so that File Recovery won’t block this utility from running.
RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download RKILL renamed as iExplore.exe)
Double-click on the iExplore.exe icon in order to automatically attempt to stop any processes associated with File Recovery.
RKill will now start working in the background, please be patient while the program looks for various malware programs and tries to terminate them.

IF you are having problems starting or running RKill, you can download any other renamed versions of RKill from here.
When Rkill has completed its task, it will generate a log. You can then proceed with the rest of the guide.

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 File Recovery malicious files with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE

Download the latest official version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE.
MALWAREBYTES ANTI-MALWARE DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free)
Start the Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware installation process by double clicking on mbam-setup file.
When the installation begins, keep following the prompts in order to continue with the setup 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 Finish button. If Malwarebytes’ prompts you to reboot, please do not do so.
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.
On the Scanner tab,select Perform full scan and then click on the Scanbutton to start scanning your computer.
Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for File Recovery malicious files as shown below.
When the scan is finished a message box will appear, click OK to continue.
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.
Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start removing the malicious files.After completing this task it will display a message stating that it needs to reboot,please allow this request and then let your PC boot in Normal mode.

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

This step can be performed in Normal Mode ,so please download the latest official version of HitmanPro.
HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download HitmanPro)
Double click on the previously downloaded fileto start the HitmanPro installation.

IF you are experiencing problems while trying to starting HitmanPro, you can use the “Force Breach” mode.To start this program in 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)
Click on Next to install HitmanPro on your system.
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.
HitmanPro will start scanning your system for malicious files as seen in the image below.
Once the scan is complete,you’ll see a screen which will display all the malicious files that the program has found.Click on Next to remove this malicious files.
Click Activate free license to start the free 30 days trial and remove the malicious files.
HitmanPro will now start removing the infected objects.If this program will ask you to restart your computer,please allow this request.

STEP 6 : Restore your shortcuts and remove any left over malicious registry keys

File Recovery 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.

Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
ROGUEKILLER DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
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.
After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.

STEP 7: Unhide your files and folders

File Recovery 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.

Download the Unhide utility, to unhide your files and folders.
UNHIDE.EXE DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download the Unhide utility on your computer)
Double-click on the Unhide.exe icon on your desktop and allow the program to run.The whole process should not take more than 10 minutes to complete,and at the end this utility will generate a report.

STEP 8: Get your desktop look back!

File Recovery 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.

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

10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams

Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.

Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.

Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).

If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.

Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.

If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.

Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.

If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.

Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.

If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.

Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.

If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.

Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.

If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.

Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.

If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).

Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.

If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.

Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.

If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.

Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
- Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
- Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
- Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
- Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
- Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
- Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
- Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.

These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.

73 thoughts on “File Recovery – Virus Removal Guide”

Nick

September 20, 2012 at 22:42

Hey!

I have already had this virus before and got rid of it thanks to you! However, I got this virus again and when I was in the process of getting rid of it, I had to use HitmanPro. But the last time I used HitmanPro, it was only a free 30 day trial and it has been past 30 days. HitmanPro was still able to do the scan for me and told me that I still had some trojans on there but I was not able to use it because I don’t have the money to buy the program. So I was wondering if there is another solution to these trojans that I still have on my computer. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks for your help!

Nick Swafford
- Stelian Pilici
  
  September 22, 2012 at 18:13
  Hello Nick,
  We can manually remove this files however let’s see if we can get rid of some of them using the below software:
  1.Run a scan with Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool
  Click here to download the Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool.
  1. Save it to your desktop.
  2. Double click the setup file to run it.
  3. Follow the onscreen prompts until it is installed
  4. Click the Options button (the ‘Gear’ icon), then make sure only the following are ticked:
    
    System Memory
    
    Hidden startup objects
    
    Disk boot sectors
    
    Local Disk (C:)
    
    Also any other drives (Removable that you may have)
  5. Then click on Actions on the left hand side
  6. Click Select Action, then make sure both Disinfect and Delete if disinfection fails are ticked
  7. Click on Automatic Scan
  8. Now click the Start Scanning button, to run the scan
  9. After the scan is complete, close the program
  2.Run a scan with Eset Online Scanner.
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  NEXT,please re-run a scan with HitmanPro and post the log or a screenshot here and I’ll give you instructions on how to remove the left over files.
  Good luck!
liam

September 20, 2012 at 17:36

thankyou so much for the guide, worked a treat!
Caroline Brown

September 16, 2012 at 14:46

Hi,
I’m having a similar problem to someone above. When I boot my laptop in safe or normal mode, it gives me a black screen and a blurry line on the top right hand side. I will be able to remove the virus if the laptop lets me switch it on!! Please help, I’m using my work laptop at the moment.
Thanks in advance,
Caroline
- Stelian Pilici
  
  September 18, 2012 at 12:21
  Hello Caroline,
  It really loks like the dispay driver got corrupted by this infection.Can you please uninstall it,restart and then reinstall it back in.
  NEXT,can you please run a scan with Combofix, ESET online scanner and post the logs here so that I can get an idea on what’s going on:
  
  STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
  
  Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:
  
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  
  VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download.ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop
  - Close any open browsers.
  - Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
  - WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
  - Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
  - If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
  1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
  2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
  3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.
  Notes:
  1. Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
  2. Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
  3. If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.
  STEP 2: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  NEXT,please run a scan with HitmanPro and RogueKiller as seen on the guide.
  Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs.
Dan

September 14, 2012 at 17:19

The link to the unhide.exe is broken.
- Stelian Pilici
  
  September 14, 2012 at 17:44
  
  Hello Dan,
  Here is the download link: http://download.bleepingcomputer.com/grinler/unhide.exe .
  Alternatively,you can download this utility which will do the same job: http://www.tweaking.com/content/page/unhide_non_system_files.html
Carol

September 12, 2012 at 22:34

THANK YOU!!!!
Tim

September 12, 2012 at 16:44

Hello,
I keep getting stuck on the trying to run rkill. Whether I run it as iexplorer or rkill, I keep getting an error message when I start it saying “you are about to be logged of, windows has encountered a critical error and will restart in one minute. please save your work now.” Then rkill finishes runnning but my computer restarts before I can do anything else. Any advice?

Thanks
Tim
- Stelian Pilici
  
  September 12, 2012 at 17:44
  Hello Tim,
  STEP 1: Run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware in Chameleon Mode in Norman 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
  STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  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 Scan button to perform a system scan.
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
  STEP 3 Please perform a scan with HitmanPro as seen on the guide.
  If you are having problems starting this program please use the ForceBreach mode as described in the guide.
  
  STEP 4: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is running!
  Good luck…
Anton

September 11, 2012 at 20:56

Thanx a lot – it worked for me!
Some of the actions I had to repeat; and I had to use ComboFix and ESET to remove virus completely
- Stelian Pilici
  
  September 12, 2012 at 03:39
  Hello Anton,
  Unless you are having other problems, it is time to do the final steps.
  1. Hold down the Windows key + R on your keyboard. This will display the Run dialogue box
  2. In the Run box, type in ComboFix /Uninstall (Notice the space between the “x” and “/”) then click OK
  3. Follow the prompts on the screen
  4. A message should appear confirming that ComboFix was uninstall
  You should really start a thread in our Security Configuration forum as you need to build a layerd security config: http://malwaretips.com/Forum-Security-Configuration-Wizard
  Also it would very good if you took the time and read this article that I’ve wrote: http://malwaretips.com/blogs/how-to-easily-avoid-pc-infections/ .. If you follow it,then we’ll never meet again in this conditions.
dave

September 11, 2012 at 04:54

thank you so much, u saved my computer
shae

September 10, 2012 at 12:09

Hi. I managed to run a system restore. That fixed it as well. But now it’s back again (and more sophisticated this time – it’s ‘hiding things’). I had to do a search for the system restore from the search facility right above the Start button in the Start menu. When I start up in Safe Mode, I can’t see My Computer, Control Panel, many of my installed programs under All Programs (including I.E. or Chrome), etc. I didn’t even see the proxy server in the I.E. LAN settings.
- Stelian Pilici
  
  September 10, 2012 at 12:19
  
  Hello shae,
  Did you run the utilities recommended in this article?
  - shae
    
    September 10, 2012 at 13:29
    
    Not all. I ran the RKILL, but it said it didn’t find anything. So I stopped and went with the system restore. Which utility would have resolved the ‘hidden things’ issue?
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    September 10, 2012 at 16:55
    Hello Shae,
    Please follow this steps:
    STEP 1: Run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware in Chameleon Mode in Norman mode:
    
    Download Malwarebytes Chameleon from here and extract it to a folder in a convenient location
    
    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.
    
    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)
    
    Follow the onscreen instructions to press a key to continue and Chameleon will proceed to download and install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for you
    
    Once it has done this, it will attempt to update Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, click OK when it says that the database was updated successful
    
    Next, Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will automatically open and perform a Quick scan
    
    Upon completion of the scan, if anything has been detected, click on Show Result
    
    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
    
    After your computer restarts, open Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and perform a Full System scan to verify that there are no remaining threats
    
    STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
    
    Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
    
    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 Scan button to perform a system scan.
    
    After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
    
    Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
    
    STEP 3 Please perform a scan with HitmanPro as seen on the guide.
    If you are having problems starting this program please use the ForceBreach mode as described in the guide.
    
    STEP 4: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
    
    Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
    
    Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
    
    Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
    
    Click the Start button.
    
    Check Scan archives
    
    Push the Start button.
    
    ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
    
    When the scan completes, push Finish
    
    Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is running!
    Good luck…
Katherine

September 10, 2012 at 04:16

I ran Malwarebytes before finding this guide and I was able to remove t a lot of trojans…but when I try to run it after RKILL, it keeps freezing on me after 8min…. in safe mode! And in normal mode I can’t even open Malwarebytes… So I turned my comp off and on and now it’s not even opening into safe mode…it was taking FOREVER so being scared the virus was taking information I turned my comp off….now what????
- Stelian Pilici
  
  September 10, 2012 at 12:11
  Hello Katherine,
  Can you please run a scan with Combofix, ESET online scanner and post the logs here so that I can get an idea on what’s going on:
  
  STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
  
  Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:
  
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  
  VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download.ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop
  - Close any open browsers.
  - Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
  - WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
  - Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
  - If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
  1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
  2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
  3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.
  Notes:
  1. Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
  2. Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
  3. If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.
  STEP 2: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Next,please run a scan with HitmanPro and RogueKiller
  Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utilities.
Guy

September 8, 2012 at 23:56

Hey so i still dont have internet and havent gotten to download the programs because the box for proxy server wasnt checked in the first place and all the other devices in the house have internet. Is there any other reason why it could be blocking my internet
- Stelian Pilici
  
  September 10, 2012 at 12:26
  Hello Guy,
  Can you please run a scan with Combofix,Complete Internet Repair and Farbar Service Scanner so that I can get an idea on what’s going on :
  
  STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
  
  Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:
  
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
  
  VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download.ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop
  - Close any open browsers.
  - Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
  - WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
  - Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
  - If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
  1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
  2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
  3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.
  Notes:
  1. Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
  2. Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
  3. If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.
  STEP 2: Run a scan with Complete Internet Repair utility
  1. Download Complete Internet Repair utilityto your desktop
  2. Unzip all the files to their own folder on the desktop
  3. Within the folder double click CIntRep
  4. Select the following items,then press the GO button.
  STEP 3: Run a scan with Farbar Service Scanner
  1. Download Farbar Service Scanner from the below link.
    FABAR SERVICE SCANNER (This link will automatically download Farbar Service Scanner on your computer)
  2. Run the ulity and checkmark all the boxes
  3. Click on the Scan button.
  4. Add the log that will produce in your next reply.
  Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utilities.
Joe

September 8, 2012 at 19:57

I tried your suggestion but couldn’t get passed step one I rebooted my laptop and pushed f8 and all I’m getting is a beeping every time I push the f8 button with a black screen and a blinking line any other suggestions I might be able to do this is my work computer and I’m lost with out it
- Stelian Pilici
  
  September 10, 2012 at 12:26
  Hello Joe,
  Lets work in Normal Mode then:
  Hello Josh,
  Yes,it is…however you can also follow this instructions:
  
  STEP 1: Run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware in Chameleon Mode in Norman 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
  STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  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 Scan button to perform a system scan.
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
  STEP 3 Please perform a scan with HitmanPro as seen on the guide.
  If you are having problems starting this program please use the ForceBreach mode as described in the guide.
  
  STEP 4: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is running!
  Good luck…
Sara

August 30, 2012 at 20:41

I can’t thank you enough!!! This was wonderful information and worked on my computer and now is running perfectly. I don’t have a lot of money so this was such a blessing…thank you, thank you!!!
Ben

August 30, 2012 at 14:59

Brilliant – thank u guys !
u-are-my-hero

August 30, 2012 at 10:53

You are awesome!thank you!
sam

August 28, 2012 at 19:14

How long does it take RKill to scan and run for the “file recovery virus”? I downloaded and ran it, but after 1 hour it hasn’t gotten pass this step:
Checking for Windows services to stop
* no malware services found to stop
Checking for processes to terminate.

I could not close RKill by clicking on the “x” at the upper right hand corner of the DOS screen – had to do a hard shutdown, pushing the power button until my PC shutdown.
I downloaded and ran the other RKill files and they either got stuck at the same spot or didn’t run at all.

Should I have let RKill run longer?
- Stelian Pilici
  
  August 28, 2012 at 20:12
  Hello Sam,
  The RKILL scan should not take more than 10 to 15 minutes…….
  Lets work in NORMAL MODE to avoid this issue:
  STEP 1: Run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware in Chameleon Mode in Norman 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
  STEP 2: Run a scan with RogueKiller
  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  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 Scan button to perform a system scan.
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
  STEP 3 Please perform a scan with HitmanPro as seen on the guide.
  If you are having problems starting this program please use the ForceBreach mode as described in the guide.
  
  STEP 4: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:
  1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
    ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
  2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
  3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
  4. Click the Start button.
  5. Check Scan archives
  6. Push the Start button.
  7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
  8. When the scan completes, push Finish
  Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is running!
  Good luck…
  - sam
    
    August 29, 2012 at 12:29
    
    Thanks! You’re a genius. It took about 2 1/2 hours, but my computer is up and running now.
John E

August 28, 2012 at 05:49

Are you kidding me! I am a complete novice, got the file-recovery virus and thought all was lost. It did take many hours, but following the above instructions was simple — and it worked. I did accidentally download a ‘pay’ program from CNET, but realized my mistake and went back to Malware — just took an extra half hour for a scan I didn’t need. Thanks!
johnny

August 27, 2012 at 04:35

thanks so much for this info i truly appreciate all the files that i get to keep and the time it takes to reinstall all my apps. god bless you
Nic

August 26, 2012 at 18:08

Thank you so much for taking the time to do this. It has saved me time and $$$$ thanks!
Donnelle

August 25, 2012 at 03:20

Thank you!!!