Remove Data Recovery,S.M.A.R.T HDD,Repair and Check virus

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Written by: Stelian

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If you are seeing a Serious Disk Error Writing Drive C:\ alert on your computer screen,then as you probably already suspect you’re computer has been infected with a rogue software.
The malicious software is known as Smart HDD,Data Recovery,S.M.A.R.T Virus or S.M.A.R.T Check and has changed your desktop background,hidden your files and shortcuts and it’s causing browsing redirects.
In addition the S.M.A.R.T Virus will display fake alerts, claiming that several hard drive errors were detected on your computer.In reality, none of the reported issues are real, and are only used to scare you into buying S.M.A.R.T Virus and stealing your personal financial information.
We strongly advise you to follow our S.M.A.R.T 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.
If you’ve got a S.M.A.R.T Virus infection , you’ll be seeing this screens :
[Image: Smart-HDD.png]

[Image: Smart-HDD.png]

[Image: Smart-HDD.png]

Registration codes for S.M.A.R.T Virus

As an optional step,you can use the following license key to register S.M.A.R.T Virus and stop the fake alerts.
Data Recovery Rogue: 08869246386344953972969146034087
SMART HDD Rogue: 15801587234612645205224631045976
Please keep in mind that entering the above registration code will NOT remove S.M.A.R.T Virus from your computer , instead it will just stop the fake alerts so that you’ll be able to complete our removal guide more easily.

Removal guide for S.M.A.R.T Virus

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 S.M.A.R.T Virus malicious proxy server

S.M.A.R.T Virus 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: S.M.A.R.T Virus- 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 S.M.A.R.T Virus.

RKill is a program that attempts to terminate any malicious processes associated with S.M.A.R.T Virus ,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 S.M.A.R.T Virus.
    [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: S.M.A.R.T Virus 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 S.M.A.R.T Virus 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 S.M.A.R.T Virus 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

S.M.A.R.T Virus 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. Download Unhide.exe, to unhide your files and folders.
    Download Unhide.exe
  2. Double-click on the Unhide.exe icon on your desktop and allow the program to run.The whole process should not take more than 5 minutes to complete,and at the end this utility will generate a report.
    Unhide files utility

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

S.M.A.R.T Virus 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!

S.M.A.R.T Virus 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.

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

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.

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

    warning sign

    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.

  2. Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.

    updates guide

    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.

  3. Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.

    shield guide

    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.

  4. Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.

    install guide

    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.

  5. Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.

    cursor sign

    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.

  6. Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.

    trojan horse

    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.

  7. Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.

    lock sign

    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.

  8. Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).

    lock sign

    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.

  9. Back up important files and keep one backup offline.

    backup sign

    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.

  10. If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.

    warning sign

    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.

236 thoughts on “Remove Data Recovery,S.M.A.R.T HDD,Repair and Check virus”

  1. Bedankt,

    Je bent goed bezig, ga zo door. Kost een paar uur werk en een fles wijn maar alles werkt weer.

    Thanks,

    Continu with what you are doing. It cost some time and a bottle of wine but everything works again. Greetings from the Netherlands.

  2. WhenI ran Rkill i got a log saying that it terminated nothing i ran it multiple times with the same results i then ran malwarebytes and it didnt detect any malicious software how do i go about getting rid of this smart recovery virus when it cant find it?

    • Did you run the HitmanPro scan?
      Please Please 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. Push Finish when the scan has completed.

  4. Salut Stelian,

    Ca si ceilalti care au comentat aici, as vrea sa iti multumesc foarte mult pentru frumosul mod de a eradica acest urat virus. Aseara mi-a paralizat tot si ma gandeam cum o sa lucrez astazi, avand in vedere ca 90 % din jobul meu este pe PC.

    Efectiv m-ai salvat.

    Sper sa ti se intoarca inzecit acest gest.

    Multumesc inca o data. Toate cele bune,

    C.

  6. Hi, my laptop freezes in safe mode after mup.sys so I cannot continue with your procedure. Help,

  7. I tried to run the unhide program, and as it was running it highjacked my desktop, which now reads “Rocky2 Jackman Rev. 003” How did this come about from your link? I need help, because instead of unhiding anything, it seems I have lost everything! Thanks for anything you can do

    • Did remove all the infected objects by the recommended software?
      Please 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 List of found threats
      9. Push Export to Text file  and save the file to your desktop using a unique name, such as ESETScan. Include the contents of this report in your next reply.Note – when ESET doesn’t find any threats, no report will be created.
      10. Push the back button.
      11. Push Finish

      Next,please run Unhide.exe again!

  8. Hello,
    You are a lifesaver! i thought that i had lost everything, and then found this!
    The screenshots from the virus are identical to what i have and now i need some additional help, PLEASE!~
    i am running windows 7 and when i start up, hitting F8 does nothing. i can F12 or F2 to enter Setup Utilitiy, however i do not see anything about a safe mode. I saw one post that suggested the same issue and they were able to disable something however, i do not even see that! (i cannot remember exactly what it was, boot something~ it was many posts ago)
    What do i do, or can i do from the setup utility to get started on your suggested process?
    Also, i am accesing this via my ipod, not the infected lattop, so actual links to things wont work for me… :(
    Thanks a million in advance~

  9. Stelian, Sir- you are an absolute life-saver! Thank you SO much for having this series of steps available. Granted, when this nightmare occurred at about 9:45pm est yesterday I was skeptical of my skills and computer knowledge in executing this “fix”- but you made it pretty painless. I will say that I too, was unable to reboot in safe mode (f8), but when I hit (f2) at start-up and “disabled” the “quickboot” mode, I was able to boot in “safe-mode” but then I was unable to gain internet access. I also noticed that with each subsequent “reboot”/ gimme “f8” safe-mode dang it, the Virus “hid” more items, making it nearly impossible to do anything- I could no longer even search for “internet explorer” under the start menu search and open it from there. (I write all of this hoping it may help anyone else with these little “nuance” issues.) Luckily, If it weren’t for the fact that I knew one program under my control panel (Revo Uninstaller) trial has expired and automatically opens a web browser to purchase– I don’t think I would have been able to fix it– as this became the new procedure by which I opened a web-browser each time to access and download from this website. But thank you so much again!!

  10. Thanks ! U r a great life saver. I did follow your steps and fixed the problem.But when I check the start-program- I still can c the “Data recevery”. then I select to Uninstall them , the Smartchek window came back… how to clean that next ( in the start -program..).?

  11. my computer was rendered useless this week with the SMART Virus and not being a technical type person I thought everything was lost. Fortunately I found this blog when searching for SMART CHECK before doing anything else. These instructions were easy to follow and completely guided me through fixing the mess the malware created. I can’t thank you all enough!

  13. After having the SMART virus a few days ago and believing I had fixed it I am left with a problem…

    I am hearing random audio ads (only audio – no images on screen) when in internet explorer and even when running Windows XP alone with no windows open.

    Is this a remnant of the SMART virus or something else?

    Any help would be appreciated.

  14. Thank you for the detailed removal instructions, my laptop is now fully functioning and back to normal (I followed your instructions for Normal start up as internet was unavailable in safe mode) ! Just one odd thing though- when I ran RKill it shut down the whole system process and caused my laptop to crash instead of just stopping any virus processes. I followed the other steps without using RKill after restarting.
    Also I didn’t have the administrator password so I did it all on my user profile. Will this effect the removal success of the S.M.A.R.T. virus?

    Many Thanks,
    Carmen

    • The Rkill step is used just to stop the malicious process , if you manage to complete the guide without using it …it’s ok!:D
      When the computer was infected it was using a limited account or administrator?
      Stay safe!

      • Hi,

        I have gone through all the steps and all programs work fine, but neither Rkill nor Malwarebytes detects anything. So nothing is removed. But when i restart my computer, the SMART check is performed again (although this time it indicates that all files are fine…). So the Malware is still there.
        How can i get rid of it?
        Thanks.

      • You’ll need to use an Administrator account when logging into Safe Mode and performing the scans/removing the infections….
        Next,perform a system scan with Emsisoft Anti-Malware:

        1. Please download the latest official version of Emsisoft Emergency Kit : http://www.emsisoft.de/en/software/eek/
        2. After the download process will finish , you’ll need to unpack EmsisoftEmergencyKit.zip
          [Image: ekk1.png]
        3. Open the Emsisoft Emergency Kit Folder and double click EmergencyKitScanner.bat
          [Image: ekk2.png]
        4. A pop-up will prompt you to update Emsisoft Emergency Kit , please click the “Yes” button.

          [Image: ekk3.png]

          [Image: ekk4.png]

        5. After the Update process has completed , put the mouse cursor over the “Menu” tab on the left and click-on “Scan PC”.

          [Image: ekk5.png]

        6. Select “Smart scan” and click-on the below “SCAN” button.

          [Image: ekk6.png]

        7. Emsisoft Emergency Kit will now start scanning your computer for malicious files as shown below.

          [Image: ekk7.png]

        8. When the scan will be completed , you will be presented with a screen showing you the malware infections that Emsisoft Emergency Kit 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 ‘Quarantine selected objects’ button.
          [Image: ekk8.png]
        9. Emsisoft Emergency Kit will now start removing the malicious files.
          If during the removal process Emsisoft will display a message stating that it needs to reboot, please allow this request.

        If you are still experiencing problems , start a thread in our Malware Removal Support forum : http://malwaretips.com/Forum-Malware-Removal-Assistance

  16. Hey, I am currently in safe mode, but no Internet is available to download rkill. I do have Internet in normal mode though, any ideas??

    • Hello,
      Ok,try to do this…
      STEP 1 : While in NORMAL MODE,download HitmanPro and then start this program in ForceBreach Mode
      1.Here are the direct download links for HitmanPro,
      – http://dl.surfright.nl/HitmanPro36.exe (For 32bit)
      – http://dl.surfright.nl/HitmanPro36_x64.exe (For 64bit)
      2.Hold down the left CTRL-key when you start HitmanPro and all non-essential processes are terminated, including this rogue malicious process
      Here is a video that explains with graphic details how to do this : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6eRWTv2STk
      3. If it start ,let it scan and remove all the detected threats.

      STEP 2: Download/Run Rkill and then run a scan with Malwarebytes.
      1.Download a different named Rkill (direct download links bellow):
      http://download.bleepingcomputer.com/grinler/WiNlOgOn.exe
      http://download.bleepingcomputer.com/grinler/uSeRiNiT.exe
      http://download.bleepingcomputer.com/grinler/rkill.scr
      2.And then follow the guide starting with the Malwarebytes scan.

      STEP3 : Perform a system scan with Emsisoft Anti-Malware:

      1. Please download the latest official version of Emsisoft Emergency Kit : http://www.emsisoft.de/en/software/eek/
      2. After the download process will finish , you’ll need to unpack EmsisoftEmergencyKit.zip
        [Image: ekk1.png]
      3. Open the Emsisoft Emergency Kit Folder and double click EmergencyKitScanner.bat
        [Image: ekk2.png]
      4. A pop-up will prompt you to update Emsisoft Emergency Kit , please click the “Yes” button.

        [Image: ekk3.png]

        [Image: ekk4.png]

      5. After the Update process has completed , put the mouse cursor over the “Menu” tab on the left and click-on “Scan PC”.

        [Image: ekk5.png]

      6. Select “Smart scan” and click-on the below “SCAN” button.

        [Image: ekk6.png]

      7. Emsisoft Emergency Kit will now start scanning your computer for malicious files as shown below.

        [Image: ekk7.png]

      8. When the scan will be completed , you will be presented with a screen showing you the malware infections that Emsisoft Emergency Kit 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 ‘Quarantine selected objects’ button.
        [Image: ekk8.png]
      9. Emsisoft Emergency Kit will now start removing the malicious files.
        If during the removal process Emsisoft will display a message stating that it needs to reboot, please allow this request.

      If you are still experiencing problems , start a thread in our Malware Removal Support forum : http://malwaretips.com/Forum-Malware-Removal-Assistance

  17. You are a lifesaver!!! Your website has gone straight to my favourites list. Everything worked (although I had to take a few detours) and HitmanPro had no free trial. But thankyou soooooo much.

  18. I am trying to repair someone’s computer that had this virus. Thanks to this handy guide, I was able to get rid of the virus and bring back all the desktop icons that were hidden. However, in the Start Menu, many of the boxes in the submenus say “Empty” I have repeatedly followed the final instructions that SHOULD have brought them back but have since been unsuccessful.

    • Hello Chris,

      1. Right click on your Windows Start menu and select Properties.
        [Image: Eu2Aq.png]
      2. Next put a check mark on
        Store and display recently opened programs in the start menu
        Store and display recently opened items in the start menu and taskbar
        [Image: h0z5v.png]
      3. Click on Customize and click on Use default settings at the bottom
        [Image: kxZSH.png]
      4. Browse to
        Code:
        C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows

        [Image: vZZUz.png]

      5. Right click on Start Menu folder and click on Restore previous versions
      6. Now select a snapshot before you were infected by the rogue,click on restore

      • In Windows XP the Program Data folder doesn’t exist. Going by the screenshots, these fixes seem to be for Windows 7.
        In XP I can get to that Start Menu Folder in Documents and Settings but the menu doesn’t have a “restore previous versions” option. I was hoping a System Restore might bring all the submenus back but every checkpoint I try returns a Restoration Incomplete message. Just to get the System Restore running required me to run (%systemroot%\system32\restore\rstrui.exe) since the System Tools submenu under Accessories is empty. I have already tried the Tweaking fixes that were supposed to bring all the Shortcuts and Start Menu items back but have had no more luck than the first. I am rapidly running out of options. At this rate, ghosting the hard drive and reinstalling the OS might be my only option. I’m hoping you know of an easier solution

      • For Windows XP,you can try this fix:
        1)Go to the Startup icon
        2)then put cursor over “All Programs” and right click and click on “Open”
        3) Select the “Programs” folder and right click and select “Properties”
        4) Then select the “previous version” tab, await the previous versions to show up and select the folder that existed prior to your problems and hit restore and follow through with prompts.

      • I don’t see a previous versions Tab unfortunately. Just these: General, Sharing and Customize.
        Could it be that this is wasn’t added until Service Pack 3? The owner runs Service Pack 2 and is a firm believer in the “if its not broken, don’t fix it” policy. I can update their system to Service Pack 3 but if I have a feeling that while this may give me the previous versions option, it will not give me any options to choose from since it was just updated. I will try anyway and get back to you.

      • No still nothing. Service Pack 3 is up but nothing has changed. I think the submenus are gone for good. Unless you have yet another solution (I wouldn’t be surprised if you did) I am going to need to backup the documents and then reinstall the OS. It will be a pain since this is a company computer.

      • This is a manual fix for XP users:

        1. Copy the entire content of this folder:
        C:\Documents and Settings\user_name\Local Settings\Temp\smtmp\1
        and paste it to this folder:
        C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu

        2. Copy the entire content of this folder:
        C:\Documents and Settings\user_name\Local Settings\Temp\smtmp\2
        and paste it to this folder:
        C:\Documents and Settings\user_name\Application Data\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch

        3. Copy the entire content of this folder:
        C:\Documents and Settings\user_name\Local Settings\Temp\smtmp\3
        and paste it to this folder:
        C:\Documents and Settings\user_name\Application Data\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\User Pinned\TaskBar

        4. Copy the entire content of this folder:
        C:\Documents and Settings\user_name\Local Settings\Temp\smtmp\4
        and paste it to this folder:
        C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Desktop

        If the above does not work then you can restore the defaults for the Start Menu, Accessories and Administrative Tools as follows:

      • Perfect. The system tools are back in it. The only things left are the extra programs like Microsoft Office, Skype, etc. I guess those will have to be reinstalled. I appreciate the help. Back when I found the smtmp folder, I copied everything in it back to the Start Menu folder but it didn’t fix anything. Since I was not the first person to try and fix this computer, I can only assume that the majority of the shortcuts were somehow deleted.

  19. This is the worst case I was worried about for the last 15 years.
    And it happened inspite always updating my browsers, OS, AV-software and plugins – just a few moments before finishing an important work. Instead I
    had a thrilling night session.
    Most puzzling was to figure out which sources throughout the web are reliable and which ones are free-riders or even part of the original fraud. Too many – commercial- offers seemed suspicious. But thanks to this great guide, I got my machine working again and met the deadline next morning.
    Unfortunately one symptom I supposed to be part of the infection appeared once again in the morning: a vertical striped freezed monitor.
    So I run the whole procedure a second time. Now – a few days later – the system appears stable.
    One question is left: What was the infection path of the trojan? Just drive-by?

    Thanks a lot!

  20. Your directions were magnificent!!! Thank u sooooo much!!! I do have one question…my mouse pad on my laptop is not working properly…I can tap to select n scroll the right button works but the left doesnt. Could this b from the virus?

    • Sounds more like a hardware problem than a side effect….. Try to disconnect – reconnect the cable….

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