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”

  2. I tried to do the F8 and my computer just beeped really loudly and so after a minute of this I forced a shut down. When I turned it back on it said my computer didn’t start properly and ran a scan and luckily I had backed up my computer last month and when it ran the scan it asked if I wanted to try and recover to an earlier version and I said yes. It took 10 min or so but i got back on my computer and everything is working so far but i still have the SMART HDD License note on my desktop. Did this get rid of the virus? or should I do something else? Thank you for your help.

    • No, this rogue software is still on your machine.Please follow the above removal guide.
      Try instead of pressing and holding the “F8 key”, tap the “F8 key” continuously until you get the startup menu.Please do this before the Windows logo appears.

  4. Have tried using the guide but when I attempt to install Malwarebytes I get ACCESS DENIED…. ???

  6. Thanks so much. Computer seems to be working great. I still have a S.M.A.R.T HDD icon on my desktop and in the programs menu…how should I remove these?

  7. Thanks a lot. It was a great help.
    I still have one problem.
    I have got the links back on the Start Menu, but NOT the links to most of the programs in under the ‘All programs’. My PC runs XP. For instance all the preinstalled games like ‘Spider’ are gone from the Start Menu.
    Is there an easy way to get them back.
    But still – thanks a lot for the help!

  8. This was a great tutorial–thanks so much! I almost fell into the trap of clicking on the SMART HDD popups until I realized they had a spelling error in their message. It’s nice to turn on my computer and not have it go crazy!

  9. The procedure worked “almost” perfectly. One big problem though…

    Only remaining problem is that I have no file management capability beyond creating a new file/folder. I can’t move, delete or rename any files/folders. When I try, I get msg saying “Cannot delete (or move or rename) xxx. Access is denied. Make sure that disk is not full or write-protected and that the file is not currently in use.”

    Saving a doc from MS Word or Excel gives me the message that “Word cannot complete the save due to a file permission error”

    I followed all the steps and had to run the “unhide” program as well. Is there something else I should look at?

    Thanks for the great write-up, and any thoughts you might have on this problem.

  10. Thank you so much for the help. I performed all of the above steps, however, none of my documents, pictures or videos are showing. Also, the S.M.A.R.T HDD icon is still showing on my desktop. Did I not remove the virus? Thank you.

    • Did you remove the malicious objects that were detected by the on-demand scanners?
      If you don’t see your files and folders then run again Unhide.exe, wait until the log is genarated… please note that this may take awhile!

      • I removed all malicious objects and everything that was suggested to remove. I will try to run the Unhide.exe again. Does it take several hours or all day? Thanks so much for your help. This was scary.

  11. When I woke up this a.m. and needed a Remove START HDD For Dummies you guys were there to provide it. It was a process, but it worked and was well worth it. Thanks a bunch and keep up the good work!

  12. Hey. Thanks for all the tips and advices here! I just have a quick question. When I run the microsoftfixit, it gives me a error.
    The installer has encountered an unexpected error installing this package. This may indicate a problem with this package. The error code is 2738.
    How do you fix this? I think my host files are still infected.
    Thanks!

  13. You can regain control of most of your computer by entering the registration code shown at http://malwaretips.com/blogs/uninstall-smart-hdd/ This means you can regain control of Task Manager, Registry Editor, and Windows Explorer (see below)

    “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.”

    I also ran my antivirus scanner, which did NOT however identify this malware as a virus or shut it down. However, once I regained control of my computer, I activated Task Manager and shut down the process I could not identify (Bsy05V4MFLu7iT.exe). This shut down the malware.

    A File Search on Bsy05 led to some very recently installed files, which I deleted. I also deleted everything associated with Bsy05V4MFLu7iT in my Registry Editor.

    My computer now seems under control, and I can see my files although several icons are still missing from my desktop. The fact that using Task Manager to kill Bsy05V4MFLu7iT.exe shut down the malware suggests however that this is a good solution.

    I also reported this incident as Internet crime to the FBI (http://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx) because, as far as I know, it is a felony to install a virus on another person’s computer. I pointed out very specifically that the program kept me from accessing my control panel, Task Manager, and most of my file system.

    Caveat: I am NOT a computer professional. What worked for me was use of the registration code (I did not give my real E-mail address when “registering,” by the way, and I suggest you don’t either) to regain control of File Manager (or Windows Explorer) and the Registry editor, and Task Manager. Task Manager identified the unidentified process, and shutting it down shut down the malware. I used the identity of the process shown by Task Manager to delete all files and registry entries associated with Bsy05V4MFLu7iT.exe. The fact that the file was installed at the time the problem began shows that this is the problem file, and its removal should fix the problem.

  15. Thank you so much for this really really thank you!!!!!!!^_^ I WUB YOU FOR THIS!!!!^O^

  17. Thank you for the tools and instructions, they solved my (sons) PC problem.
    By the way, my Mac ClamXav identified iExplorer and RKILL as Trojan.Hupigon-33703 malware, which felt a bit like driving out the devil with the belzebub.

  19. Thank you for posting this step by step removal guide. It worked for me, and most importantly it save me $100 which is the amount Microsoft wanted to charge me to remove this virus. The only issue Im having is that when I click on the start menu my control panel list is still missing. I followed the link you gave and did Step 8 (Windows Repair All In One utility step ), but it did not work. Do you have any other possible solutions for this issue?

    • Here is what you need to do : Click the Windows Start button and right click on the menu …. it will open up the “Taskbar and Menu properties” from it ..select Customize and then a new window will open…. Select to display as link or menu each time you need….
      http://imgur.com/u5wlb

    • Replace the Kaspersky Scan with the HitmanPro scan…… If it doesn’t start use the Force Breach mode in HitmanPro ( all instructions are in step 6)

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