If you are seeing a fake alert from S.M.A.R.T Check or S.M.A.R.T Repair then you’re probably reading this article so you can understand how to get rid of it.Thankfully we’ve got the instructions to help you get rid of this virus.

First off all , you should know that , S.M.A.R.T Check and S.M.A.R.T Repair are both fake components of Data Recovery or Smart HDD malicious software, this infections 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.
The infections has changed your desktop background to a black scren, has hidden your files and shortcuts and it’s causing browsing redirects.

If you’ve got a S.M.A.R.T virus infection , you’ll be seeing this screens :

[Image: Smart Check.png]

[Image: Smart Repair.png]

[Image: Smart alert.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

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.
On the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Safe Mode with Networking , and then press ENTER.
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.

Start Internet Explorer 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 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.

While your computer is in Safe Mode with Networking ,please download the latest official version of RKill.
Double-click on the RKill iconin order to automatically attempt to stop any processes associated with S.M.A.R.T virus.
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 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.
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 S.M.A.R.T virus malicious files with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE

Please download the latest official version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE.
Install Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware by double clicking on mbam-setup.
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.
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,please select Perform full scan and then click on the Scan button to start scanning your computer for any possible infections.
Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for S.M.A.R.T virus 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.If during the removal process Malwarebytes will display a message stating that it needs to reboot, please allow this request.

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.
Double click on the previously downloaded file to start the HitmanPro installation.

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)
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. Depending on the size of your hard drive, and the performance of your computer, this step will take several minutes.
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.
Click Activate free license to start the free 30 days trial and remove the malicious files.
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.

Download Unhide.exe, to unhide your files and folders.
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.

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.

Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
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 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.

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 !

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.

138 thoughts on “Remove S.M.A.R.T Check and Repair virus”

Joanne

June 22, 2012 at 19:13

Hi, I can’t download the RKill program!! Any suggestions please? Thanks so much
- Stelian Pilici
  
  June 22, 2012 at 19:18
  Hello Joanne,
  Try this :
  Option 1 : Try to 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
  And then follow the guide starting with the Malwarebytes scan.
  
  If that doesn’t work please try to do this:
  Option 2: 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 , then perform a scan with Malwarebytes.
  
  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
  3. Open the Emsisoft Emergency Kit Folder and double click EmergencyKitScanner.bat
  4. A pop-up will prompt you to update Emsisoft Emergency Kit , please click the “Yes” button.
  5. After the Update process has completed , put the mouse cursor over the “Menu” tab on the left and click-on “Scan PC”.
  6. Select “Smart scan” and click-on the below “SCAN” button.
  7. Emsisoft Emergency Kit will now start scanning your computer for malicious files as shown below.
  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.
  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-Help-my-PC-is-infected
- Joanne
  
  June 22, 2012 at 20:26
  
  Thank you so much, you will never know how truely in debt I am to you. You are a credit to society for helping the likes of me. I am so thankful to your blog x
Lance Cornwell

June 21, 2012 at 19:15

Thankyou very much, most of your S.M.A.R.T. repair process was great. This type of post is greatly appreciated and I plan to purchase the products you have directed me to.
Yoo

June 21, 2012 at 07:58

Everything is now OK, except my active desktop. My desktop is blank despite moving the files to the correct folder, and it is impossible to right click in the desktop, right clicking does nothing.
- Stelian Pilici
  
  June 21, 2012 at 10:07
  Plese run Unhide.exe
  1. Download >> Unhide.exe. < <<
  2. Double-click on the Unhide.exe icon on your desktop and allow the program to run.When it has completed its task it will generate a report.
  Then perform a scan with Emsisoft Anti-Malware :
  1. Download the latest official version of Emsisoft Emergency Kit
  2. After the download process will has comleted, you’ll need to unpack EmsisoftEmergencyKit.zip
  3. Open the Emsisoft Emergency Kit Folder and double click EmergencyKitScanner.bat
  4. A pop-up will prompt you to update Emsisoft Emergency Kit , please click the “Yes” button.
  5. After the Update process has completed , put the mouse cursor over the “Menu” tab on the left and click-on “Scan PC”.
  6. Select “Smart scan” and click-on the below “SCAN” button.
  7. Emsisoft Emergency Kit will now start scanning your computer for malicious files as shown below.
  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.
  9. Emsisoft Emergency Kit will now start removing the malicious files.
Doug

June 20, 2012 at 01:37

Running Win XP in safe mode, proxy server box was NOT checked, stumped at RKill. Download box opens and it appears to download, but then nothing. No icon, no “run” window, nothing. If it’s there, I can’t find it.
Hitman pro appears to download, the big green window comes up, but nothing at the bottom of the page. No “Next” button—no buttons at all.
Malware bytes downloads and proceeds all the way to the point of set-up, then a SET UP box appears w big red X button that says “Access Denied”.
Any ideas?
- Stelian Pilici
  
  June 20, 2012 at 02:51
  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 , then perform a scan with Malwarebytes.
  
  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
  3. Open the Emsisoft Emergency Kit Folder and double click EmergencyKitScanner.bat
  4. A pop-up will prompt you to update Emsisoft Emergency Kit , please click the “Yes” button.
  5. After the Update process has completed , put the mouse cursor over the “Menu” tab on the left and click-on “Scan PC”.
  6. Select “Smart scan” and click-on the below “SCAN” button.
  7. Emsisoft Emergency Kit will now start scanning your computer for malicious files as shown below.
  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.
  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
- Doug
  
  June 27, 2012 at 11:52
  
  Starting up in normal mode the S.M.A.R.T. virus had me locked out of all programs and no access to internet. In desperation I tried the license key AND IT WORKED! I got access to programs & access to internet. Still had one annyoing “Alert” window that kept poping back up every 5 seconds or so, but was able to work around that and download & run Hitman Pro, and then also RKill, Maleware Bytes, and Rogue Killer. Unsucessful with Emsisoft, though. It was taking hours and hours to download, until finally I just gave up. Right now everything works (I think), the desktop is back, and the icons are back.
  Seems to be sluggish though. I see that Hitman Pro auto-starts at startup, but it only takes 3-4 minutes and then it’s done. Maybe some of the other anti-maleware programs are slowing me down?
  Should I leave them all installed, or maybe get rid of some of them?
  Should I turn off Hitman Pro and just run it periodically?
  
  Thank you soooooo much for your expert assistance! You are a Gentleman and a Scholar, and I will be always in your debt.
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    June 27, 2012 at 17:41
    You can stop HitmanPro from running at startup as it isn’t need it…..And if you want you can uninstall any software that, you had to install(malwarebytes,hitmanpro etc..)
    Additionally ,you can perform a scan with ESET Online Scanner
    
    Hold down Control and click on the following link to open ESET OnlineScan in a new window.
    ESET OnlineScan
    
    Click the Eset online Scannerbutton.
    
    For alternate browsers only (Microsoft Internet Explorer users can skip these steps)
    
    Click on esetinstaller.exe to download the ESET Smart Installer. Save it to your desktop.
    
    Double click on the Eset installer icon on your desktop.
    
    Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
    
    Click the Start button.
    
    Accept any security warnings from your browser.
    
    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 List of found threats
    
    Also it would be a very good idea to register on our forums and start a thread in our Security Configuration Wizard forum to build up your PC protection.
Puppybarf

June 19, 2012 at 16:23

Thanks SO MUCH for the detailed info.
Hans

June 19, 2012 at 00:23

thank u so much i successfully removed it.. but i didn’t know how i get infected in the first place..
any thoughts on how to avoid get infected by this smart faggot again?
- Stelian Pilici
  
  June 19, 2012 at 04:18
  
  Hello Hans,
  Read this article: http://malwaretips.com/blogs/how-to-easily-avoid-pc-infections/
  And start a thread in our Security Configuration Wizard forum : http://malwaretips.com/Forum-Security-Configuration-Wizard
  
  Stay safe!
Caroline

June 18, 2012 at 22:48

Thank you sooo much! I just got this laptop and it really scared me. I have one question though, there is an icon that says data recovery… should I delete it, or is it safe?
- Stelian Pilici
  
  June 18, 2012 at 23:41
  
  If you remove all the infected objects found by Malwarebytes and the other software then yes, you can (and should) delete the left over shortcut on the desktop!
  Stay safe!
Gary

June 12, 2012 at 17:37

I picked up SMART from Amazon’s website this morning when I clicked add to cart!
Believe SMART is gone but I still have an icon tray item on left. Since all this removal starts in safe mode, can you indicate somewhere in your instructions when to reboot to normal mode before recovering desktop icons, background, etc.
Thank you so much for your help!
- Gary
  
  June 12, 2012 at 18:37
  
  I looked at properties for icon, found folder name, folder was gone but files named same as folder that were executable still remained. Deleted those 3 files and the taskbar and desktop icon.
  Thanks again.
Deb

June 12, 2012 at 15:03

Hi!

I am following your instructions to remove this virus however I am stuck. After starting the computer in Safe Mode I can not find Internet Explorer to continue. It’s not on my Start menu nor on the task bars. How do I get there?

Thanks!
- Stelian Pilici
  
  June 12, 2012 at 15:14
  Hello Deb, 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.
  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.
  - Deb
    
    June 12, 2012 at 15:17
    
    Do not have the Notepad file when I do that. I have the following:
    Bitmap image
    Contact
    Microsoft Office Work Document
    Journal Document
    Microsoft Office PowerPoint Presentation
    Text Document
    Microsoft Office Excel Worksheet
    Compressend Folder
    Briefcase
    
    Any suggestions? Thanks!
  - Stelian Pilici
    
    June 12, 2012 at 15:20
    
    Use the ‘Text Document’ option…. Make sure to save it as a .bat file (this is very important!)
  - Deb
    
    June 12, 2012 at 15:24
    
    It worked! Thank you!
  - Deb
    
    June 12, 2012 at 16:52
    
    Thank you so much for your help! It looks like I have removed the virus.
  - Ruben
    
    June 20, 2012 at 07:37
    
    another way to do this is right click on the task bar, and select “task manager”, then select “new task” button, then type “iexplore.exe”, this will bring up internet explorer.
Holden

June 11, 2012 at 21:13

A few of the computers at my company got infected. Pretty much all of my data appears to be missing. Upon completion of the removal, will the data return? In other words, will I be able to make a full recovery?
- Stelian Pilici
  
  June 12, 2012 at 03:41
  
  Yes , just follow the guide..If you need help, just ask here!
  Good luck!
AndyDontKnowComputer

June 11, 2012 at 01:27

I……. I love you….. Thats it. you have saved my life and now I love you.
AB

June 10, 2012 at 09:42

Thanks a lot. I very much appreciate your help.
Eduardo

June 9, 2012 at 20:46

Thank you very much for you help! I still have problems with usb flash memory devices and with external usb hard disks, because the computer doesn´t recognise them, although the usb port permits to connect mouse or printers even if I boot from a usb flash memory, but it doesn´t work with files stored in those devices. Can you suggest me something?
Spayth

June 8, 2012 at 00:33

Thank you SOO freakin much……. I swear I’m going to name my first born after you…. It’ll take him a while to get use to since he’s already 11yrs old but I’m going to do it anway ;) this info saved my butt.. Thanks again
Wizard

June 6, 2012 at 02:04

Thank you worked great……….
JRJ

June 5, 2012 at 14:08

Great stuff. Works exactly as described. Thanks for the time, effort and expertise.
Flor

June 4, 2012 at 21:58

Thnx! Best post ever! I’ve tried everything and always had to pay! u rock!
Steve

June 4, 2012 at 13:08

I have the S.M.A.R.T. virus on my primary computer. I have not yet attempted to remove it out of fear of causing more damage. This virus embedded itself after I noticed that all of my search requests were being redirected to totally unrelated websites. (Google redirect virus) So now I not only have one problem, I have two. I am not a novice at computing but neither am I an expert. I am hoping that the steps you have outlined will remedy this issue otherwise I will have no other choice than to call Geek Squad or someone for assistance. How anyone could be so malicious as to conceive this type of virus is beyond me and believe that they should be identified and brought up on charges. Wish me luck.
- Stelian Pilici
  
  June 4, 2012 at 19:35
  
  Good luck.
  If you need help just ask here or in our forums!:)
- Kerrin
  
  June 18, 2012 at 17:05
  
  I got it and thought my Saturday and thought my laptop was gone.I followed these instructions and it’s back to normal.I didn’t need the last couple of tasks.
Kai

June 1, 2012 at 21:26

Hey, thanks alot! I tried everything with no luck, and then i found this great website. It took time to scan it but it was worth it. I still have something called Data Recovery on my pc, but i dont know if it matters?
Thank you anyway, i recommend this to everyone who got the same problem :)
Shannon

June 1, 2012 at 00:37

I was able to do everything except I still cannot access my C:\Documents and Settings locations to move my saved pinned task bar items and other shortcuts back to their original location.

I CAN, however, get to all of my documents.
- Stelian Pilici
  
  June 1, 2012 at 11:16
  Lets try to run Unhide.exe and run it.
  1. Download Unhide.exe.
  2. Double-click on the Unhide.exe icon on your desktop and allow the program to run.When it has completed its task it will generate a report.