Remove System Repair virus (Uninstall Guide)

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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“System Repair” is a computer virus, which pretends to be a diagnostic and repair program, and claims that several hard driver errors were detected on your computer.If you try to repair these hard drive issues, System Repair will state that you need to buy its full version before being able to do so.
[Image: System Repair virus]

Apart from the bogus scan results, System Repair will display other fake security alerts that are designed to make you think that your hard drive is failing or has become corrupt. These messages may include:

Hard drive boot sector reading error
System blocks were not found
Error while relocating TARE sectors
Error 0 – DATA_BUS_ERROR
Error 0x00000078 – INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE
Error 0x00000050 – PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
The storage device has failed a self-test
The self-test procedure of the storage device has detected an irreparable errors.
SMART state is “Out of order” before the disk scan

In reality, none of the reported issues are real, and their only purpose is to scare you into thinking your hard drive is failing so that you will purchase this rogue security product.

As part of its self-defense mechanism, System Repair has disabled the Windows system utilities, including the Windows  Task Manager and Registry Editor, and will block you from running certain programs that could lead to its removal.
This rogue antivirus has also modified your Windows files associations, and now whenever you are trying to open a program, System Repair will block this action and display a bogus notification in which will report that the file is corrupted or missing.

Windows detected a hard drive problem.
A hard drive error occurred while starting the application.
Windows cannot find iexplore.exe. Make sure you typed the name correctly, and then try again. To search for a file, click the Start button, and then click Search.

Furthermore, to make its alert seem more authentic, System Repair has changed your desktop background to a solid black color, has hidden your files and folders and delete your Windows shortcuts.If your computer is infected with System Repair virus, it is important that you do not delete any files from your Temp folder or use any system maintenance tools. This is because when the infection is installed it will delete shortcuts found in various locations and store backups of them in the %Temp%\smtmp folder.

If your computer is infected with System Repair virus,then you are seeing the following screens:
[Image: System Repair]<

[Image: System Repair - Hard Disk Problem]

[Image: System Repair virus - Hard Drive Failure]
System Repair is a scam, and you should 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 bank and dispute the charge stating that the program is a scam and a computer virus.
Registration codes for System Repair
As an optional step,you can use any of the following license keys to register System Repair and stop the fake alerts.
System Repair activation code:
08467206738602987934024759008355
56723489134092874867245789235982
Please keep in mind that entering the above registration code will NOT remove System Repair from your computer , instead it will just stop the fake alerts so that you’ll be able to complete our removal guide more easily.

System Repair – Virus Removal Instructions

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.
    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.
  3. On the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Safe Mode with Networking , and then press ENTER.
    [Image: Safemode.jpg]

STEP 2: Run RKill to terminate known malware processes associated with System Repair.

RKill is a program that will attempt to terminate all malicious processes associated with System Repair, so that we will be able to perform the next step without being interrupted by this malicious software.
Because this utility will only stop System Repair 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.Please note that we will use a renamed version of RKILL so that System Repair won’t block this utility from running.
    RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download RKILL renamed as iExplore.exe)
  2. Double click on iExplore.exe to start RKill and stop any processes associated with System Repair.
    [Image: RKILL Program]
  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: RKILL stoping malware]
    IF you are having problems starting or running RKill, you can download any 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: RKill Report]

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 3: Remove System Repair malicious files with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is a powerful on-demand scanner which will remove System Repair malicious files from your computer.

  1. You can download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free from the below link,then double-click on it to install this program.
    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)
  2. 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.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware final installation screen]
  3. On the Scanner tab,select Perform quick scan and then click on the Scan button to start scanning your computer.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Quick Scan]
  4. Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for System Repair malicious files as shown below.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware scanning for System Repair]
  5. When the Malwarebytes scan will be completed,click on Show Result.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware scan results]
  6. 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 from what is shown in the image.Make sure that everything is Checked (ticked) and click on the Remove Selected button.
    [Image:Malwarebytes removing virus]
  7. After your computer will restart in Normal mode, open Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and perform a Full System scan to verify that there are no remaining threats

STEP 4: Restore your shortcuts and remove any left over malicious registry keys with RogueKiller

System Repair 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. This step can be performed in Normal Mode, download the latest official version of RogueKiller from the below link.
    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,  then click on the Scan button to perform a system scan.
    [Image: RogueKiller scaning for System Repair virus]
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys or files.
    [Image: RogueKiller Detele button]
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
    [Image: Restore shorcuts with RogueKiller]

STEP 5: Remove System Repair rootkit with HitmanPro

In some cases,System Repair will also install a rootkit on victims computer.To remove this rootkit we will use HitmanPro.

  1. Download HitmanPro from the below link,then double-click on it to start this program.
    HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a new web page from where you can download HitmanPro)
    IF you are experiencing problems while trying to start HitmanPro, you can use the Force Breach mode.To start HitmanPro 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)
  2. HitmanPro will start and you’ll need to follow the prompts (by clicking on the Next button) to start a system scan with this program.
    HitmanPro scanner
    HitmanPro installation
  3. HitmanPro will start scanning your computer for System Repair malicious files as seen in the image below.
    HitmanPro scan after System Repair
  4. Once the scan is complete,you’ll see a screen which will display all the infected files that this utility has detected, and you’ll need to click on Next to remove this malicious files.
    HitmanPro scan results
  5. Click Activate free license to start the free 30 days trial and remove all the malicious files from your computer.
    HitmanPro 30 days activation button

STEP 6: Unhide your files and folders

System Repair 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 the Unhide utility, to recover your files and folders.
    UNHIDE.EXE DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download the Unhide utility on your computer)
  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 10 minutes to complete.
    [Image: Unhide your files and folder with Unhide.exe]

STEP 7: Get your desktop look back!

System Repair 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 Vista, 7 and 8  : 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 System Repair from your machine, please start a new thread in our Malware Removal Assistance forum.

How to Stay Safe Online

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

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

    Shield Guide

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

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

    updates-guide

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

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

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

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

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

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

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

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

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

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

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

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

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

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

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

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

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

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

42 thoughts on “Remove System Repair virus (Uninstall Guide)”

  1. Hello,
    Yes, that’s very likely as Incredimail is a PUP (potentially unwanted application).If your really want to use it, you should uninstall, and then reinstall this program.

    Stay safe!

  2. Sorry if this is the improper forum to address this in but I’m working on an odd problem for a friend. She uses the awful Incredimail (likes the interface) and after she recently ran RogueKiller, can no longer SEND any emails (receives just fine). I’m wondering if perhaps RK eliminated the in-this-case legitimate “mystart incredimail” and subsequently disabled other program features?

  5. Hi, thank you very much for ur detailed explanations here. It’s been useful.. I have tried all the steps, except for the hitman part, as I thought I do not need a second opinion or a re-run. I could see that I have recovered a portion of my files, but bulk of them r still missing.. what can i do now to bring abt a full restoration? Thanks!

  6. Thank you for your effort giving us such a helpful guide to solve this problem out, highly appreciated!!!

  7. I just got this system repair virus today and of course I freaked out.. I’ve never had a virus before. I started looking on the Internet trying to find out about the virus and what to do with it. I seen your blog and seen the reviews and I figured I had nothing to loose , so I gave it a try. I must say I’m VERY IMPRESSED! First time ever dealing with anything like this and you made it very easy!! Thank you so much! Wished they were more helpful people like you!!! Whoever made this virus has really been a pain….

  9. THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing your knowlege and expertise! I was about ready to pull out my hair and then I came across your blog and it saved the day!

  11. I was totally shocked when all my files had disappeared and in the web there is a lot of nonsense, to solve the problem.
    I know that you have invested a lot of time and work to prepare the guide and I thank you so much that you have provided your know how for free. It is very honorable!
    Your guide was a real help, even for a beginner!
    Thank you very much !!!

  12. Thank you so much fot this blog! I was super stressed about my pc crashing. I have done all steps you mentioned however I am missing all my microsoft office programs and everything else. Is there a way to recuperate them??

  13. Nevermind! DLed it on a clean computer and saved it to a CD. Duh.

    Thanks so much for your help! These instructions were so easy to follow. A real lifesaver.

  15. Hi! I’m reading your blog from my phone as my computer has gone completely haywire. As a result, it won’t let me get online to download RKill. Any recommendations? Thanks!

  16. Hi,

    Thank you so much. your instructions are very helpful and we succssfully recovered all files. thanks once again

  17. Removed System Repair virus and got back my icons by following your steps.
    Thank you!
    However, my background is still solid black color ever I did step 7

  18. Thank you soo soo very much!! It’s now clean. I did everything as you said and all my shortcuts and files are restored. Thank you once again.

    Any tips on avoiding this filthy virus in the future? And, do u reckon free anti viruses are any good and if so which would you recommend. If not, which is the best to buy?

    Thank again.

  20. Thanks – this was very helpful! However, I am getting an error message with the Unhide.exe file when I try to run it. It says “There was a problem retrieving a necessary environment variable. Unhide has terminated!” Any other suggestions?

  21. When I click on fix shortcuts on rogue killer it crashes the program and closes (rogue killer) ?? do i still install hitman pro??
    thanks!
    George

  23. I’ve FInished the process thanks so much!
    The system restore icon is still there can i delete it in the recycle bin?

  27. Hello,
    Most likely you have a ZeroAccess rootkit on your computer.
    Can you please run a scan with Combofix 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 here: COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (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 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 if your machine is ok and the logs.

  28. And now I can’t proceed to the next stage it brings up an error message, something about an unspecified error….

  29. First if, thanks for the help thus far , however, I’ve gone as far as step 5 but on my desktop there system repair shortcut is still there…and I got an error message when trying to fix the shortcuts…please assist.

  30. Very, very helpful!!!
    I got stuck between step 4 and 5 (there was a message in 4 saying that there was a Root.MBR, then I ran 5 which didn’t point out to anything relevant – but I deleted everything it found, anyway. Then I ran RogueKiller again and the previous message disappeared) and on step 7 (the Control Panel did not showed up, but I managed to open it thru one of Vaio’s message center) and everything worked fine.
    Congratulations and thank you for the very precise instructions.

  32. Wow, it’s not often that i follow advice from someone’s blog and it actually works! This was very helpful and easy to follow….and the main thing…..it WORKED!

    Those robbing bastards who created the virus havent got a penny outta me. HA!

  33. If I knew that there are the above tools, I would not start repairing it all manualy ;)
    fortunately I found your recipe and it worked well for me. Thanks

  34. Mark, great job and very well explained. I encountered the same problem as Manelo, fixing the shortcuts gave an error, but the same for me, at the end it all worked fine again. Many tx and keep up this good work !

  36. The program: “system Repair” described here is a fraudulant ploy involving the high jacking of intelectual property with the promise of return for payment.
    It would seem the victims of this “crime” seem to have no recourse other than to “pay” the perpetrator in order to gain further use of their property.
    I am wondering if there is a sharp lawyer able develope a class action lawsuit against the pepatrators and others , such as the paymasters. in order to stop this criminal behaviour.
    As it seems obvious, the internet is quite lawless, perhaps we need some lynching parties.

  37. Thank you!! Great explanation. I received an error when trying to fix short cuts though, but at the end it worked.

    Thanks.

  38. Very helpful! I tried all steps and I could remove System Repair virus. Plus got back my icons..
    Thank you very much!!!!

  40. Hello Mark,

    HitmanPro does offer a free 30 days trial for home users. If you are using a laptop from work, then this is the reason why it does not come bundled with the trial period!
    Stay safe!

  42. Very helpful. The virus did not allow me to see programs or uiliities even in safe mode. RIght clicking on the start key allowed me to get into file manager which enabled me to get to the core directory and then into the programs files. I was able to start explorer from there. Note that wireless was also blocked, ,I had to use a hard wire connection.
    Note as well that the free trial for HitmanPro is no longer offered, but you can see if you have any issues (I only had one maybe, so let it go for now), but can’t remove them, so take note and do it manually.

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