Uninstall Smart HDD

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Written by: Stelian

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

[Image: Smart-HDD.png]

Registration codes for Smart HDD

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

Removal guide for Smart HDD

STEP 1 : Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking

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

STEP 2: Remove Smart HDD malicious proxy server

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STEP 6: Unhide your files and folders

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

  1. 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

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

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

STEP 8: Get your desktop look back!

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

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

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.

  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.

364 thoughts on “Uninstall Smart HDD”

  3. Thank you so much for your helpful and informative save. i was able to rescue my xp, thanks to you.

    • Hi, there are no words enough to say thank you for your help. My Laptop all of a sudden contracted a HDD smart infection so bad I thought I might have to have it serviced. As I said no words are enough to show gratitude, but thank you thank you.
      Al

  4. Stelian!

    If it were biologically possible, I would bare your next child.

    THANK YOU!!!!!

    Sincerely,

    Brian

  5. Procedures where on point and worked exactly as indicated; thanks for taking the time to put together this detailed information. Very much appreciated!

  7. Hi
    My laptop is infected with virus which has made all the folders including files not to open how do i remove the virus without deleting the important files and also how do i open them.And the internet doesn’t wanna open how do i resolve this issue?

    Thank you
    nono

    • Hello nono,
      Can you please run a scan with Combofix and ESET online scanner and post the logs here :

      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.
      • Close/disable all anti virus and anti malware programs so they do not interfere with the running of ComboFix.
        ———————————————————–

        • 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”.
        • Click on this link to see a list of programs that should be disabled. The list is not all inclusive. If yours is not listed and you don’t know how to disable it, please ask.
          ———————————————————–
        • Close any open browsers.
        • 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

      Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utilities.

  8. Need xtra assistance, posting from my phone. I have Smart HDD and it will not allow me to enter safe mode or Windows altogether. It will hang if i try to enter safe mode & will claim a disk failure if i let it go. Im trying to get back in in order to follow your guide. Any tips?

    • Hello Will,
      Lets work in NORMAL MODE.
      Please 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

      2.Please perform a scan with HitmanPro,RogueKiller an Unhide.exe as seen on the guide.

      3.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

  9. Please help I try to get to safe mode with networking but as it loads files it stops and won’t go. I keep starting again and it keeps doing it

    • Hello steph,
      Lets work in NORMAL MODE.
      Please 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

      2.Please perform a scan with HitmanPro as seen on the guide.

      3.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

      • I can’t get that far I try normal mode and it takes me to a scream saying checking file system on c: And says a lot more about checking a disk. Says to use system restore feature from control panel. but how can I get to control panel to do so?

      • Can you ignore that warning? Just go ahead and try to download Malwarebytes Chameleon.
        If it doesn’t work than try the below step:
        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. Let HitmanPro scan and remove the detected infections.
        Next,run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.

  10. my dell has a virus that keeps restarting, ive hit safemode and it restarts before i get to run malwarebits….ive run rkill but it restarts before rkills is finished? any tips would be awesome

    • Hello,
      Lets try do this another way.Please follow the below steps…

      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. Let HitmanPro scan and remove the detected infections.

      STEP 2: While in NORMAL MODE,download/Run Rkill and then run a scan with Malwarebytes
      1.Download any re-named version of Rkill (direct download links bellow):
      RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK #1
      RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK #2
      RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK #3
      2.Next,please perform a scan with Malwarebytes and then do a RogueKiller and Unhide.exe scan as seen on the guide

      STEP 3. 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 ESET Scan. 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

      Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is working.. :) Good luck!

      • Just a note that HitMan Pro no longer offers the free trial. I used all your steps and they helped rid my computer of this stupid virus, BUT HitMan Pro showed some suspicious items and now I can’t remove those :(

      • Hello,
        Is this your personal computer or from work?It’s important to know that only home users can use this product when it comes to malware removal. :)
        You can perform a scan with the following utilities:

        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, click the reports button (‘Paper icon’, next to the ‘cog’ icon) on the right hand side
        10. Click Detected threats on the left
        11. Now click the Save button, and save it as kaslog.txt to your Desktop
        12. Please copy and paste the contents of kaslog.txt in your next reply.

        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

  13. Thank you so much, brilliant, my netbook is now back to its former self, such a relief!!

  14. Whenever I try to download the first step it begins to run then just completely disappears.

  15. Hi

    I have followed this procedure 4 times now and it still keeps comming back. I have even got AVG installed and that does not stop it. Any suggestions?
    Mike

    • OK,lets make some further check-ups:
      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, click the reports button (‘Paper icon’, next to the ‘cog’ icon) on the right hand side
      10. Click Detected threats on the left
      11. Now click the Save button, and save it as kaslog.txt to your Desktop
      12. Please copy and paste the contents of kaslog.txt in your next reply.

      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 List of found threats
      9. Push Export to Text file  and save the file to your desktop using a unique name, such as ESET Scan. 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

      Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is working.. :) Good luck!

  16. Thank you for putting this out there. I am so computer stupid but it worked!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

  17. also thanks. but I was in such bad shape the computer was useless. I finally succeeded by hitting F11 when rebooting
    (Vista on a Compaq Presario) and finding a backup point (had to choose older than 5 days). It is all very slow.

  18. Thank you for the instructions, got rid of smart on my Samsung 10 running xp.
    The only problem left is I can’t get the computer to recognize any wi-fi. I tried Tweaking.com but that didn’t work. Wi-fi is turned on but when I go to network connections the Local Area Connection Network Cable reads unplugged. I can plug in an ethernet cord and the internet works. However this netbook is not able to discover our home Wi-fi network!

    • While investigating further, I realized that my driver wasn’t showing for my LAN connection, once I updated the driver, bingo, my wireless was working.
      Thanks again for your great directions, you saved the day.

  19. Thank you so much for putting this on the Internet. I got blindsided by this stupid virus today and thought I’d have to drop serious $$$ to get my computer fixed. Thanks to you I did it all without having to take it in to Geek Squad or some other computer place. After following all of your steps to the letter my computer now runs perfectly! You’re a life-saver.

  20. Hi, I am trying to help fix a PC at work which has this virus. I have restarted in Safe mode with Networking, but there are still no icons and nothing in the Start Menu other than options to Log Off or Turn Off Computer. There is nothing in the All Programs list. I cannot get into a browser to download any of the software in your walkthrough. Any advice? I’m pretty clueless at this :/

    • OPTION 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. Let HitmanPro scan and remove all the detected threats.
      4.Run Rkill and then a scan with Malwarebytes.

      OPTION 2: While in NORMAL MODE,download/Run Rkill and then run a scan with Malwarebytes.!
      1.Download any re-named version of 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.Next,please perform a scan with Malwarebytes as seen on the guide and then a scan with HitmanPro.

      Let me know , how everything goes.

      • Hi, apologies for not clarifying in the last post; I have no icons or Start Menu programs in noral mode either. I am posting this from another PC in the office. If I start in safe mode with networking and log in as administrator, I can access a few programs including internet explorer; however since the virus was downloaded to a user profile and that is the one having the problems, I was under the impression that running the solutions in Administator profile would not help.
        Is there anyway I can download the software to a CD or something on another PC and then load them on the problem PC? Would that work? How would I load them without access to My Computer or even the Run option? Apologies for the delay in posting this, as the PC is at work I can only access it during weekdays.

      • Also wanted to add, if I right-click on the desktop nothing happens, and the only things on the toolbar are the clock and a McAfee icon. A recurring message from McAfee keeps popping up saying ‘Your Computer is at Risk, Please check your status so you can address any security issues to keep your PC protected.’ If I click on status it says Real-Time Scanning is Off; if I click Turn On it goes green and says everything is secure, the turns off again a second or 2 later. I don’t know if this is in any way related though.

      • Please ignore my earlier comments; by right-clicking on the empty Start Bar menu, I was able to get into properties, and change all options back to ‘display this item’. The Programs list is still empty, but I do have access to a browser (Firefox) so should be able to run the solutions outlined above. I will let you know how this goes.

      • I was able to download and run RKill, but when I tried to download MalwareBytes nothing happened, it just kept boucing me between 2 different sites. Each one had a link saying ‘download now’ but each link just takes me to the other site. I tried skipping to the next step and downloaded HitManPro36, but when I try to run it I just get an error message saying HitManPro36.exe has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience.

      • Hello,
        You have a MBR infection which is causing this redirect… Try the below steps and see if they work.
        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. Let HitmanPro scan and remove all the detected threats.

        Step 2: While in NORMAL MODE,download/Run Rkill and then run a scan with Malwarebytes
        1.Download any re-named version of 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.Next,please perform a scan with Malwarebytes as seen on the guide. (Direct download link for Malwarebytes: http://www.malwarebytes.org/mbam-download-exe.php )

        Report back if it doesn’t work:)

        Let me know , how everything goes.

      • Hi, thanks for getting back to me. I had previously tried the Force Breach launch for HitManPro, and have tried it again today, but I am still getting the response ‘HitManPro36.exe has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience.’ I have succesfully downloaded and run Rkill and Malwarebytes, and have had no further issues with the Data Recovery/Smart HDD virus, but it is still sitting in the Programs list. Is there a way to safely remove this? There is an uninstall option in the program list with it, but I am wary of using this as I know this is sometimes used to reinstall virus software.
        Thanks again for all your help.

      • Can you please perform the following scans…
        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, click the reports button (‘Paper icon’, next to the ‘cog’ icon) on the right hand side
        10. Click Detected threats on the left
        11. Now click the Save button, and save it as kaslog.txt to your Desktop
        12. Please copy and paste the contents of kaslog.txt in your next reply.

        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 List of found threats
        9. Push Export to Text file  and save the file to your desktop using a unique name, such as ESET Scan. 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

        Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is working.. :) Good luck!

      • Hi, both scans came back clear and generated no reports. Thanks again for your help! Apologies for the delay in replying, I was away from work for a week as I was unwell, and the following week I was on holiday.

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